When Winter Turns Dangerous: Pet Safety During Extreme Cold and Snow

Every winter brings snow to Ohio — but this weekend’s storm is not just another seasonal inconvenience.

According to the National Weather Service, much of Northern Ohio — including Marion County — is under a Winter Storm Warning, with 6–10 inches of snow expected and the heaviest snowfall occurring Sunday. A Cold Weather Advisory is also in effect, with wind chill values dropping to -10 to -15°F, and the potential for even colder conditions lingering into early next week. Officials are warning of hazardous travel, reduced visibility, and a long-duration cold event with little relief.

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Conditions like these are not just uncomfortable. For animals, they can become life-threatening very quickly.

Knowing how to prepare — and how to respond if you encounter an animal in distress — can save lives.

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Why Extreme Cold Is So Dangerous for Pets

Snow, ice, and prolonged subzero wind chills create a perfect storm of risk:

• Hypothermia, especially in small, short-haired, elderly, or sick animals

• Frostbite affecting ears, paws, tails, and noses

• Dehydration as water sources freeze

• Chemical burns from salt and ice melt on paws and skin

• Disorientation and loss, as scent trails disappear under snow

Cold weather emergencies don’t always look dramatic. Sometimes, they look quiet — an animal curled tightly, unmoving, or seeking shelter anywhere it can.

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What You Can Do Now — Before the Storm Hits

With snow expected to begin late Saturday and conditions worsening overnight into Sunday, today and Saturday morning are the safest windows to prepare.

Bring Pets Indoors and Adjust Routines

• Ensure all pets are inside before snowfall begins

• Plan for short, supervised outdoor breaks

• Puppies, kittens, seniors, and medically fragile animals should have minimal exposure

Stock Supplies Now

Preparing ahead reduces emergencies — for both pets and people.

Recommended supplies to have on hand:

• Extra pet food (several days’ worth)

• Bottled water or jugs (frozen pipes are common in storms like this)

• Any daily medications

• Towels, blankets, and newspapers for temporary warming

• A flashlight and extra batteries

• A pet carrier or crate accessible in case transport becomes necessary

If you help community animals:

• Shelf-stable cat food

• Straw or hay stored in a dry location

• Identify sheltered spots before snow accumulates

Make an Inexpensive Temporary Shelter for Outdoor Animals

If you know of outdoor or community animals, you can help before conditions become dangerous.

Simple temporary shelter:

• A sturdy plastic tote or cooler

• A small entrance hole (just large enough for the animal)

• Fill with straw or hay (NOT blankets or towels, which hold moisture and freeze)

• Elevate slightly off the ground

• Place opening away from wind and drifting snow

Even basic wind protection can significantly reduce hypothermia risk.

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Keeping Your Own Pets Safe During the Storm

Limit Outdoor Exposure

No pet should be left outside in these conditions — even “just for a bit.”

Protect Paws

• Wipe paws after walks

• Check between toes for ice buildup

• Avoid heavily salted areas

• Consider pet booties if tolerated

Watch for Signs of Cold Stress

If your pet is:

• Shivering

• Lifting paws repeatedly

• Whining or lethargic

• Trying to stop or turn back

They are too cold. Go inside immediately.

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What To Do If You Find an Animal Outside in Crisis

First: Assess the Situation

An animal may be in immediate danger if they are:

• Shivering uncontrollably

• Lethargic or unresponsive

• Limping or unable to stand

• Curled tightly and not reacting

• Seeking shelter under cars, porches, or bushes

If so, act quickly.

If the Animal Appears Frozen or Severely Hypothermic

This is a delicate emergency.

What To Do

• Move the animal indoors or to a sheltered area immediately

• Wrap gently in dry blankets or towels

• Warm gradually only

Safe warming methods:

• Body heat

• Warm (not hot) towels

• A warm room

What NOT To Do

• Do NOT rub or massage frozen areas

• Do NOT use hot water, heating pads, or hair dryers

• Do NOT force movement

• Do NOT give food or water unless the animal is alert

Improper warming can cause shock and internal damage.

Seek veterinary care as soon as possible, or contact animal control or a rescue if the animal is not yours.

If the Animal Is Not Approachable or Is Injured

• Do not chase or corner the animal

• Contact animal control or local law enforcement (non-emergency)

• Provide clear details: location, description, and condition

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A Note About Rescue Response During Severe Weather

During extreme storms, road conditions and safety concerns can limit how quickly rescues and shelters can respond.

If you are able to safely provide temporary shelter or warmth while help is coordinated, that immediate action can be life-saving.

Calling for help is always encouraged — but temporary care often bridges the gap.

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Who to Contact If You Need Help for an Animal

📍 Marion County

• Marion County Dog Pound / Animal Control📞 740-387-9097

• Marion Police Department (Non-Emergency)📞 740-387-2525

• Homeless to Home Animal Rescue & Cat Sanctuary📧 Contact via official channels or social media(Please note: response depends on capacity and safety conditions.)

📍 Elsewhere in Ohio

• Your county animal control or dog warden

• Local police non-emergency line

• Local humane society or rescue organizations

When in doubt, make the call and ask for guidance.

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Stay Safe — And Thank You for Looking Out for Them

Extreme cold does not forgive hesitation.

Preparing now, paying attention, and stepping in when it’s safe to do so saves lives — quietly, compassionately, and often without recognition.

Thank you for protecting your pets, for caring about community animals, and for being the reason someone makes it through this storm.

Please stay safe, stay warm, and stay alert.