01/21/2026
🥶A SEVERE WEATHER EVENT IS EXPECTED FRIDAY-MONDAY!! 🥶
🌡️ Quick Rule of Thumb for most pets
✅ 45°F and up
Generally safe for most healthy dogs for normal outdoor time.
⚠️ 32–45°F
Usually okay for many dogs with supervision, but:
• keep outdoor time shorter for small/short-haired/senior dogs
• watch for shivering or paw lifting
🚨 20–32°F
Only safe for short potty breaks for most pets.
Risk increases fast, especially with wind, wetness, or ice.
🆘 Below 20°F
Not safe for extended time outside.
This is “quick potty break only” territory for most dogs, and cats should be inside.
⸻
🐶 Dogs Most At Risk (Need Extra Protection)
Even at temps that seem “not that cold,” these pets struggle sooner:
• Small dogs (Chihuahuas, Yorkies, etc.)
• Short-haired dogs (Pit mixes, Boxers, Greyhounds)
• Puppies + seniors
• Dogs with arthritis, heart disease, or thin body condition
• Dogs that are wet (rain/snow = faster hypothermia)
• Dogs on leash standing still (no movement = chills faster)
⸻
🐱 Cats
Even if they “act tough,” outdoor cats are at high risk in cold weather.
• Below 45°F: safer indoors
• Below 32°F: high risk
• Below 20°F: dangerous
Also: cats hide under cars for warmth. Tap the hood/honk first.
⸻
💨 Wind Chill + Wetness Changes Everything
A dry 28°F is very different from 28°F with wind + sleet.
Wind and wet fur can make it unsafe much faster.
⸻
🚩 Signs It’s Too Cold (Bring Them In Immediately)
• shivering
• lifting paws / refusing to walk
• whining, anxious behavior
• slowing down, lethargy
• pale/blue gums (emergency)
⸻
⭐ Best Simple Guideline for a Freeze:
If it’s below freezing (32°F): short, supervised trips only
If it’s below 20°F: inside except quick potty break.
Get prepared! Bring pets in and stay warm!!
*photo model-DSDA ALUM DAKOTA*
