During winter storms, animals are at more risk of getting frostbite and hypothermia. Sudden drops in outside temperature or major snowfalls change the normal routine dogs and people are used to and may lead to injuries. Both of these conditions are rare in animals because animals can withstand cold temperatures owing to their longhaired coats and they instinctively seek shelter from inclement weather.

Some of the more common problems from winter storms are injuries.

Causes or factors that predispose to Frostbite and Hypothermia:

• Animal cannot seek shelter
• Animal becomes injured
• Animal gets caught in trap
• Owner forgetting the animal outside
• Older animals are more susceptible
• Animals with illnesses are more susceptible

Commonly affected areas:

• Cats—tips of ears, tail, and footpads
• Dogs—external genitalia and footpads

Treatment if the exposure to cold is mild:

• Remove from cold environment
• Cover with blankets
• Warm water bottles

If the exposure to cold is severe, seek veterinary assistance immediately.

Injuries

Injuries become more common during storms because of changes in routine and different equipment such as snow shovels and snow blowers. Some dogs like children thoroughly enjoy snow days and may play too close to someone shoveling or snow blowing. Such animals should be kept at a safe distance from such activities

Injuries from snow shoveling and snow blowing:

• Cuts caused by the shovel when an animal gets too close
• Eye injuries from the shovel or ice or stones in the snow
• Teeth injuries from biting at the snow when chunks of ice are present
• Getting caught in the snow blower