By Behzhig the Intrepid German Shepherd (Pack Safety Officer, Snow Patrol Division)
Thunder Bay – LIVING – Listen up, pack. When the air bites and the wind tries to steal your warmth, that’s extreme cold—and it’s serious business for dogs and cats. I love winter missions as much as anyone (snow drifts! exciting smells!), but I also know this: cold can hurt fast when paws, ears, and noses aren’t protected.
So here’s my field guide to keeping your furry family safe when temperatures plunge.
Who needs extra protection first
Not every pet is built the same. Some of us are tough trail dogs, some of us are tiny lap lions, and some of us are seniors with creaky hips. These pets need extra caution in the deep cold:
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Puppies and kittens
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Senior pets
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Small dogs, short-haired dogs, and thin-bodied pets
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Pets with health issues (especially heart, kidney, breathing problems, arthritis)
If your human is bundling up like a sleeping bag with legs… that’s your clue it’s not “fun cold.” It’s get-back-inside cold.
Outdoor time: short, smart, and supervised
Dogs: quick trips, safer routes
When it’s dangerously cold, we don’t need marathon walks. We need short, purposeful outings.
Behzhig’s Winter Walk Plan
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Keep bathroom breaks brief.
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Pick routes with wind shelter (trees, buildings, snowbanks). Wind is the real villain.
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Stay visible: reflective gear helps humans and drivers spot you in darker winter mornings/evenings.
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Watch for blowing snow—your scent-tracking skills are great, but visibility can fool even the best nose.
Signs your dog is too cold
If your dog is:
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Shivering
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Lifting paws repeatedly
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Trying to turn around / refusing to walk
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Whining, acting anxious, or hunching down
That’s the “mission abort” signal. Head inside and warm up.
Cats: indoors is the safest kingdom
Cats are clever, but extreme cold doesn’t care. The safest plan for most pet cats is simple: stay indoors during cold snaps and wind chills.
If your cat usually goes outside, help them handle the change:
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Add playtime (wand toys, puzzle feeders)
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Provide cozy perches near windows
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Keep litter boxes clean and easy to access
Indoor cats stay safer from cold stress and winter hazards like hidden ice and car engines.
Paws and skin: the winter trouble spots
Wipe those paws (every time)
Salt and ice-melt chemicals can irritate paws and can be harmful if licked.
After every walk:
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Wipe paws and belly/underside with a damp cloth
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Check between toes for ice balls or cracking
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Dry thoroughly
Booties?
Some dogs wear them like champions. Others act like their paws have been replaced by spaghetti. If your dog tolerates booties, they’re a great shield in deep cold and salty conditions.
Don’t shave down a winter coat
A winter coat is built-in gear. Unless your vet or groomer says otherwise for a health reason, avoid shaving dogs down in winter. Coat = insulation.
Keep pets dry
Wet fur loses heat fast. If your dog gets damp from slush or snowmelt, dry them as soon as you get inside.
Warmth at home: build the “cozy den”
Every pack needs a warm base.
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Set up a bed off the floor and away from drafts
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Add blankets for nesting
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Make sure fresh water is always available
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If your home air is very dry, a little humidity can help with itchy skin (talk to your vet if skin issues are ongoing)
Food and water: fuel matters
Cold weather can increase energy needs, especially for pets that spend time outside. Don’t just increase food automatically—check with your vet if you’re unsure—but do pay attention to:
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Weight changes
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Energy level
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Water intake
And please—don’t let water bowls freeze if any animal is spending time in unheated areas.
Winter hazards: sneaky dangers humans forget
Antifreeze is a serious poison
Antifreeze spills can be deadly to pets. Store it securely and clean spills immediately. Same goes for de-icers and chemical melts—keep them out of reach.
Cars: cold traps and hiding spots
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Never leave pets in a vehicle during extreme cold.
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In winter, outdoor cats sometimes seek warmth near engines. A smart habit: tap the hood before starting your car, especially during bitter cold snaps.
When to call the vet
If you suspect your pet is in trouble—especially if you notice unusual weakness, confusion, continued shivering, or they won’t warm up—get them into warmth and contact a veterinarian promptly. Better safe than sorry.
Behzhig’s Extreme Cold Checklist
Before you go out
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✅ Coat/booties if needed
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✅ Short plan (quick outing, sheltered route)
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✅ Reflective gear if it’s dim out
After you come in
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✅ Wipe paws + belly
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✅ Check between toes for ice
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✅ Dry off completely
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✅ Warm den + water
Always
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✅ Cats indoors during extreme cold
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✅ Avoid antifreeze/chemical exposure
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✅ Don’t leave pets in cold cars
