How to Protect Animals From New York’s Winter Weather

When winter settles in across New York, we feel it fast. Snow piles up, ice forms overnight, and the cold cuts right through you. Our pets and local wildlife feel that same chill, and they depend on us to help them stay safe.

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Each year, animals suffer injuries and can lose their lives during winter storms, many of which never make the news. That’s why it’s important for all of us to take a few simple steps to protect them.

Bring Pets Indoors

The best thing you can do for dogs and cats in freezing weather is to keep them inside. Animals left outdoors for long periods of time can struggle with frostbite, hypothermia, dehydration, or starvation if their water and food freeze.

Dogs chained or penned outside sometimes lack proper shelter, which makes the cold even more dangerous. If it’s too cold for you to be outside, it’s too cold for them.

Dress Them for the Weather

Just like we grab coats, scarves, and gloves, some pets need extra protection too. A sweater can help short-haired dogs stay comfortable on walks, and booties can protect their paws from ice and road salt.

Make sure to remove any wet clothing as soon as you’re back inside. And on very cold days, keep walks short and watch for signs that your pet wants to head home.

Keep an Eye Out for Wildlife

Birds and other wildlife struggle to find unfrozen water during bitter stretches of winter. You can lend a hand by placing a heavy, non-metal water bowl outside and breaking up any ice at least twice a day.

Speak Up if You See an Animal in Trouble

If you see a dog or cat kept outside without proper shelter, or chained out in the snow and ice, don’t ignore it. Write down the exact location and contact local law enforcement right away. In New York, leaving an animal to suffer in severe weather can lead to prosecution.