Keep Cincinnati pets safe this winter with tips on paw balms, dog booties, sunny walks, and early frostbite warning signs

Cincinnati winters can be beautiful with sparkling snow, crisp air, and cozy evenings. But for our pets, the cold can pose serious risks. From icy sidewalks to subfreezing temperatures, it’s important to take extra precautions to keep your pet safe and comfortable. Here are some essential winter pet safety tips from Stay At Home Pet Services to help your furry friends stay healthy and happy all season long.

Keep Walks Short but Sweet (and Sunny!)

While most dogs still look forward to their walks, cold air and frozen ground can be tough on paws and noses. When temperatures dip below freezing, try to keep walks shorter or break them into multiple quick outings instead of one long one.

For extra warmth, aim to walk during the sunniest part of the day, usually late morning or early afternoon. Even a bit of sunshine can help raise temperatures slightly and make the outing more comfortable for both you and your dog. Plus, sunlight helps boost vitamin D and reduces the chill that comes from shaded or windy areas.

Pay attention to how your dog behaves outdoors. If they’re holding up their paws, shivering, whining, or trying to head home early, it’s time to bring them inside. Always err on the side of caution. Some breeds, like Greyhounds and Chihuahuas, are especially sensitive to cold. Know your dog and know their limits.

Protect Those Precious Paws

Just like our skin can dry and crack in winter, your pet’s paw pads can too. Add in rock salt, de-icing chemicals, and frozen ground, and their paws can take a beating. Here’s how to keep them healthy and protected:

• Apply a paw balm or wax before walks to create a protective barrier. Look for trusted options like:
  • Musher’s Secret Pet Paw Protection Wax – a long-time favorite for dogs who spend time in snow or on salted sidewalks.
  • PawTection by Natural Dog Company – a thick, natural balm great for shielding paws from harsh conditions.
  • Burt’s Bees Paw & Nose Lotion – gentle and moisturizing, ideal for after-walk recovery.
• Wipe paws after every walk. Use a warm, damp cloth or pet-safe wipes to remove salt, ice, and debris. This prevents irritation and stops your dog from licking potentially toxic chemicals.
• Trim fur between paw pads. Snow tends to clump in longer hair, making it uncomfortable and slippery for your pup.
• Try dog booties for extra protection. Booties not only keep paws warm but also shield against salt and rough surfaces. Top-rated options include:
  • Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots – durable, breathable, and designed for traction on icy sidewalks.
  • Kurgo Step-N-Strobe Boots – waterproof with light-up soles for nighttime visibility.
  • QUMY Waterproof Dog Boots – budget-friendly, highly rated, and easy to slip on.

It may take your dog a few tries to adjust to booties. So, start indoors with short sessions and plenty of treats until they get comfortable.

Recognize Frostbite and Hypothermia Early

Cold-weather conditions can quickly lead to frostbite or hypothermia, especially for pets left outside too long. Frostbite most often affects ears, tails, and toes, appearing as pale, cold skin that can become red, swollen, or painful once warmed.

Hypothermia is even more dangerous and happens when a pet’s core body temperature drops too low. Early signs include shivering, muscle stiffness, and weakness. Severe cases may cause slowed breathing or confusion. If you suspect frostbite or hypothermia, gently move your pet to a warm location, wrap them in a blanket, and contact your veterinarian immediately. Avoid using direct heat sources like hair dryers or heating pads. Slow warming is safest.

Keep Comfort Going Indoors

After your winter walks, make sure your pet has a warm, cozy space to relax. Provide plush bedding away from drafts and keep fresh, unfrozen water available at all times. If your home tends to be dry in the winter, consider using a humidifier to prevent dry skin and irritation. Pets feel it too!

Cats, especially those who love basking in sunlight, will appreciate soft blankets near sunny windows. And a little extra bonding time goes a long way during the long, cold months.

A Warm Word from Stay At Home Pet Services

Winter walks can be safe and enjoyable when done with care. At Stay At Home Pet Services, we make it our mission to ensure local pets stay happy, exercised, and healthy all winter long, no matter how chilly it gets outside. Whether you need midday dog walks while you’re at work or trusted in-home pet sitting during your holiday travels, you can count on our experienced team to keep tails wagging and paws protected.

Click here to become a client today or give us a call at 513-706-7702. Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Instagram too! We post everyday, so make sure you follow us so you don’t miss out on any adorable pet pictures.