Cold Weather Events and Hypothermia

During cold weather emergencies, the Montgomery County Office of Animal Services will enforce Executive Regulation 17-17, Anti Cruelty Conditions for Dogs and Other Pets, Section 4. In the event of an extreme weather situation or weather emergency, owners must not leave a pet unattended outdoors. Pet owners are advised to be particularly careful with pets on walks in the cold and be familiar with the symptoms of hypothermia. This regulation will be enforced as long as and whenever, the Weather Service issues a Cold Weather Emergency alert. During a Cold Weather Emergency, outdoor housing for an animal, as described in 17-17, Section 3, is inadequate and further measures must be taken to provide adequate heating, as approved by the Executive Director. If you see a pet in distress, call 301-279-8000.

What Causes Hypothermia?

Hypothermia occurs when a pet's body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Some pets are more susceptible due to their size, breed, or health, but any pet (or person!) can be at risk under certain conditions.

Cold Weather Exposure: Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures such as those during a cold weather event is the most common cause.
Wet Conditions: Wet fur accelerates heat loss.
Poor Health or Malnutrition: animals that are sick, elderly, or undernourished may struggle to reglate their body temperature.
Small/Thin Breeds: Breeds with short hair or low body fat such as Chihuahuas and Greyhounds are more at risk for hypothermia.
Shock: Physical injuries or shock can lower a pet's body temperature and make them more vulnerable to hypothermia.
Immersion in Cold Water: Falling into icy water can bring on hypothermia in minutes.

What are the Symptoms of Hypothermia?

Hypothermia symptoms range from mild to more severe cases depending on how long the pet has been exposed to the cold and how low their temperature has dropped.

Mild symptoms may include shivering, lethargy, and cold ears or paws.
Moderate symptoms may include muscle stiffness, lack of coordination, confusion, slowed breathing and heart rate.
Severe symptoms include collapse, unconsciousness and even death. Dogs may stop shivering entirely which is a dangerous sign.

How is Hypothermia Treated?

Mild symptoms of hypothermia can be resolved by drying your pet thoroughly and getting them into a warm environment. Wrap them in a blanket and provide a safe heat source such as a heating pad wrapped in a towel. Moderate to severe hypothermia requires immediate veterinary attention.

Tips for Protecting Your Pet During Cold Weather

Limit the time your pet spends outside on extremely cold days. Keep walks short and focus on indoor activities for exercise (think food puzzles, scent enrichment, or teaching some tricks).
Invest in a sweater for your dog and booties that protect your dog's feet from ice, snow, and the salt on sidewalks/roads.
Dry your pet thoroughly after they have been exposed to snow or rain.
Make sure to clean your dog's paws off to remove any salt- not everyone uses pet-safe salt on the sidewalk!

Outdoor Cats in Cold Weather

Worried about community cats in the cold weather? Cats have lived outside in all types of locations, conditions, and climates. They are well adapted to where they live- which is outdoors! These cats know where to find food and shelter from the elements. Want to help community cats out in the winter? Check out these cold weather tips from Alley Cat Allies .
If you find a cat outdoors that is sick, injured, or appears unwell, bring the cat to MCASAC or call 301-279-8000 option 2.

MCASAC is always here as a resource for you, your neighbors, and the animals in Montgomery County. Please do not hesitate to contact MCASAC for more information.