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By Liz O'Connell
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As millions of Americans prepare for a major winter snowstorm this weekend, one pet parent warned others about the mistake she made with her dog earlier in the month.
In a January 5 TikTok video posted to the account @mooseypup2, a dog owner explained her mistake of walking her dachshund, Moose, in the cold weather without proper precautions. The quick walk led to frostbite on his paws, making her feel like the "worst dog mum." He lucked out not needing a trip to the vet, as he recovered quickly, but it still serves as a warning for others.
Aly Cohen, a doctor of veterinary medicine and clinical instructor at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, spoke to Newsweek ahead of the winter storm to inform pet parents on how to keep their canines warm, as cold tolerance depends on a dog's age, health, coat type, size and prior acclimatization.
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"I become much more cautious once temperatures drop below freezing, especially when wind chill makes it feel significantly colder," she said. "When temperatures reach the low 20s Fahrenheit or below, walks should be kept very brief."
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If temperatures get into the single digits, it is unsafe for pets to be outside for more than a few minutes. They should be out long enough to relieve themselves, she said. Puppies, senior dogs, small breeds, those with thin coats and canines with heart or kidney disease are at higher risk in cold weather, sometimes struggling in temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
This dog owner explained in the caption that she checked the temperature and thought Moose would be fine, especially as she wrapped him in a jumper and coat. The two walked outside in about 37 degrees Fahrenheit, which is above freezing, but it became too much for his tiny paws.
Frostbite severity varies, commonly affecting a dog's paw pads, nose or ears and tail tips. Mild cases involve pale or cool skin becoming red and painful after rewarming. Dogs might lick or chew at the painful and itchy spots. Severe frostbite occurs when the tissue freezes and leads to tissue death. The affected area might look pale or grey. It could go from feeling cold to hard and "wood-like."
"Unfortunately, this type of injury is irreversible and often requires surgical removal of the dead tissue," Cohen said.
To prevent frostbite, Cohen said owners should recognize when their dogs become too cold. Early warning signs might include shivering, lifting a paw, reluctance to walk, turning back home, slowing down or lying down.
But if one suspects their dog has frostbite, Cohen recommends seeking a veterinarian immediately to assess tissue viability, pain management and prevent further damage. In the meantime, owners can gently rewarm the affected areas with warm water or warm, circulating air. Dry the area thoroughly. Do not rub the skin or directly apply dry heat.
For Moose's owner, the scare led her to order insulated booties, which Cohen said is a great option if a dog can be comfortably acclimated to wearing them. Those who benefit the most are smaller dog breeds, those with thin coats, senior canines and ones with mobility issues such as arthritis.
"[Boots] provide excellent protection for paw pads by reducing direct cold exposure, preventing cracks or cuts from ice and snow, protecting against salt and other de-icing chemicals."
Owners should also be mindful of the surface their pet is walking on because ice, concrete and metal conduct cold more efficiently than snow or grass, which can increase their risk.
Newsweek reached out to @mooseypup2 for additional comment.
Many TikTok viewers expressed thanks for the warning, as they also did not know about the dangers of cold weather for dogs.
"Ohhh, I didn't know this was a thing. Thank you for this, it's really helpful, and I'm sure my sausage will be happy not to go out on the cold," wrote one person.
Another added: "I was debating getting my boys some doggy boots earlier, but wasn’t sure. I’m taking this as a sign to get some! Thank you."
A third viewer commented: "I wouldn’t have known that either! Glad he’s ok."
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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