Feb 18, 2025

Austin, it’s happening again! The temps are dipping into freezing and below starting today and lasting the remainder of the week. With the pending extreme winter temps headed our way we’re working to move 57 animals — 50 dogs and the current 7 Barn Cats to sleepover, foster or adoptive homes!

While we do have working heaters in every kennel building, these are “open-air” kennels, meaning they can be drafty and being made out of concrete, not an ideal place to spend a night in these extreme temps, let alone multiple nights. When weather like this rolls in, our staff and volunteers have added responsibilities beyond getting the dogs out for their potty and stretch breaks. These responsibilities include:

• Rolling down and zipping weather tarping

• Monitoring kennel temps

• Placing coats on all of the dogs (this can be hard for some of our dogs with touch sensitivities!)

• Monitoring electrical

• Closing dogs into the “inside” part of their kennel, which isn’t ideal for the bigger dogs who would prefer more space to move around.

Come straight to our main shelter(1156 W Cesar Chavez) 12-6pm if you can provide a warm and safe space for a dog or cat in need! 

Also, don’t forget to keep the pets safe near you:

• Bring your pet inside: If you keep your dogs outside, let them inside your home. Drastic temperature changes are challenging for pets and humans, so helping them stay warm in your home is helpful.
• Make an enclosure for community cats: You can help keep community cats safe by using boxes or plastic bins to create a makeshift home.
• Put a sweater on your pup: Consider buying a jacket or cozy sweater so that when it’s time to step outside, your furry friend is kept nice and warm.
• Knock on your vehicle’s hood to check for cats: In cold weather, cats may seek warmth near a car engine. To be extra safe, knock on the hood of your car before you head out in the morning.
• Don’t leave your pet unattended in a car: Keep them warm by leaving them at home. Leaving your pet in a vehicle in very cold temperatures can be deadly, especially if the breed isn’t meant for cold weather.
• Add blankets for extra warmth: With temperatures dropping, adding additional blankets or pillows to their bedding can help with warmth. Elevating the bedding off the ground will benefit the most.
• Limit time outdoors: Watch for signs of discomfort, such as shivering and seeking a place for warmth.
• Clean their paws: Clean paws after outdoor activities. This will help them dry faster and maintain their warmth.
• Remember, every pet is different, so paying attention to their needs and preferences is essential. Here’s what to check for if you are worried your dog or cat might have an illness or injury from the cold: Check their paws and ears for frostbite. These areas will be pale, white, or grey if proper body temperature is not maintained. The smaller the pet, and the shorter the fur, the less likely they are to endure cold weather. The risk of hypothermia is more likely in Austin. Remember if you are cold – they’re cold!
• Avoid De-Icer – Try to avoid any outdoor chemicals that get rid of ice. If your pet gets any on their paws, make sure to rinse them off quickly!

For City of Austin cold shelter resources *with pet accommodations click here.

To read more about how APA! is keeping our pets safe during severe weather click here. 

Source: Austin Pets Alive