How I Keep Pets Safe in Extreme Weather (Winter Edition)

Brenda Cardoso
Dec 12, 2025
3 min read

Because cold paws deserve warm care ❄️🐾

Winter is coming, and just like us, our pets can feel the drop in temperature — sometimes even more than we do. As a professional pet sitter, I spend a lot of time outdoors with all kinds of animals, and keeping them safe and comfortable in extreme weather is ALWAYS my top priority.

Here’s exactly how I protect your pets during those freezing months, plus some helpful tips you can use at home too.

1. Layering for Warmth: Not All Pets Handle Cold the Same

Some dogs love the cold… and some start shivering the moment the wind hits.

When I take your pets out during winter, I always check:

Age (puppies & seniors are more sensitive)
Breed (short-haired dogs get cold FAST)
Coat type
Current health

If needed, I use a cozy sweater or a winter coat for our walks. If your pet has one at home, I’ll happily put it on before we head out. Keeping their core warm makes a huge difference!

Tip for owners:If your dog gets cold easily, keep a sweater near the leash so I can put it on before walks.

2. Limiting Outdoor Time When It’s Too Cold

There are days when the weather is “cute snow day ❄️,” and days when it’s “absolutely not.”

During extreme cold, I shorten outdoor time and focus instead on:

indoor play
enrichment games
warm snuggles (if your pet allows!)
mental stimulation to burn energy

This keeps pets safe while still keeping them happy.

Try this at home:Use puzzle toys, snuffle mats, or hide treats around the house. A tired mind = a happy dog.

3. Protecting Paws From Ice, Salt & Frozen Sidewalks

Ohhh winter sidewalks… the salt burns, ice cuts, and sidewalks can be brutal.

I always:

check paws before and after walks
wipe them clean to remove salt
avoid icy areas
watch for limping or sudden stops (sign of icy pain)

Helpful tip:Consider a paw balm or booties if your dog tolerates them — they really help protect paw pads.

4. Watching for Signs of Cold Stress

Pets can’t tell us when they’re freezing, but their body language does.

I look for:

shivering
lifting paws off the ground
tail tucked
slow walking
whining
refusing to continue the walk

If I notice any of these, we head back inside immediately.

5. Keeping Chickens, Cats & Other Fur Babies Safe

Since I care for more than just dogs, here’s how I winterize for everyone:

Chickens 🐔

– Check for drafts in the coop– Make sure water isn’t frozen– Keep bedding dry– Protect from predators looking for warm shelter

Cats 😺

– Heated beds (if you have them)– Limit outdoor time– Extra playtime inside– Keep them in warm rooms during cold snaps

Senior pets & pets with medical needs

They get extra monitoring, slow-paced walks, and warm rest areas.

6. Emergency Plans Ready to Go

If there’s:

a blizzard
a storm
or power outage

I always follow your emergency instructions and contact you right away. Your pet’s safety comes first, always.

Final Thoughts: Winter Can Be Cozy, Safe & Fun

Cold weather doesn’t have to stop your pets from having a good time. With the right precautions — and someone who truly pays attention to their comfort — winter becomes just another season to enjoy.

If you ever have questions or want personalized winter care tips for your pet, I’m always here to help. Stay warm out there! ❄️💛🐾