MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
With bitter cold and dangerous wind chills forecast to move into the region, a local veterinarian is urging pet owners to take immediate steps to protect animals from extreme winter conditions.
Dr. Jon Austin of Hutchinson Small Animal Hospital joined the Morning Show on Thursday to share practical advice for keeping pets safe as temperatures plunge.
Austin said preparation is especially critical for animals that spend time outdoors. He emphasized the need for proper shelter that blocks wind and moisture, noting that even hardy animals can tolerate severe cold if they are protected correctly.
“Pets need a place that gets them out of the wind and up off the ground,” Austin said. “Cold transfers through the earth, so elevating shelters on blocks or bricks with an air gap underneath makes a big difference.”
Austin recommended insulated dog houses or plastic igloos, ideally filled with clean straw or hay rather than blankets, which can absorb moisture and freeze. He said animals instinctively create nests, so shelters should contain plenty of bedding and have small entrances facing south to reduce wind exposure. Rubber or heavy plastic flaps over openings can also help retain heat.
Nutrition and hydration are equally important during extreme cold. Austin explained that animals burn more calories to stay warm and may need increased food intake. Access to unfrozen water is also essential, which may require heated bowls or stock-tank heaters. He cautioned owners to ensure electrical cords are safely installed to prevent injuries.
While the discussion focused heavily on household pets, Austin said the same principles apply to livestock. He expressed concern about cattle and horses left in open fields without windbreaks during severe weather, noting that even simple structures can significantly reduce stress and suffering.
“Nothing breaks your heart more than seeing animals huddled together with no protection,” he said. “It doesn’t take a large structure — just something to block the wind and give them a chance.”
Austin also addressed health concerns tied to rapidly changing weather. He said fluctuating temperatures, increased winds, and recent moisture have contributed to a rise in respiratory issues and allergies among pets. Clinics have seen more cases of nasal discharge, coughing, and skin conditions such as ringworm, which can be spread by spores stirred up from dry soil.
“Pets experience many of the same seasonal issues people do,” Austin said. “The environment affects them just like it affects us.”
As the cold snap approaches, Austin encouraged pet owners to act quickly.
“This isn’t something you do in ten minutes,” he said. “If you have animals outside, today or tomorrow is the time to get ready.”
Veterinarians say when conditions become dangerously cold, the safest option is always to bring pets indoors whenever possible.