Hot Days, Cold Nights: Pet Safety in SoCal Winters

Southern California Winters can swing from chilly nights to warm, dry afternoons, and both extremes can be dangerous for pets. The American Red Cross reminds owners that safety starts with knowing the numbers and taking the right precautions.

When It’s Cold

Even shorthaired or small pets can develop hypothermia when temperatures dip below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the average low between December and February in and around Los Angeles. In the Valley, temperatures dip even lower, averaging about 40 degrees nightly. To counteract this, limit outdoor exposure on cold, windy, or rainy days and bring animals inside overnight. Provide insulated bedding (raised for outdoor pets) and check paws for cracks caused by cold pavement or salt. Signs of cold stress include shivering, whining, and sluggishness. Bring pets inside right away if you notice any of these signs.

When It’s Hot

On the flip side, sunny Winter days can still overheat animals. Asphalt can reach 125 degrees when the air temperature is just 75 degrees, and 150 degrees when it’s 85 degrees out, which is hot enough to burn paw pads within seconds. Before walks, press the back of your hand to the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Use booties or protective wax, walk during early morning or evening hours, and keep pets hydrated.

Never leave pets in parked cars, even with cracked windows. Interior temperatures can increase more than 20 degrees in 10 minutes, reaching deadly levels.

Be Prepared

Keep a year-round pet emergency kit stocked with food, water, medications, and vaccination records. Find more tips on the Red Cross Pet First Aid app – search “American Red Cross” in your app store or visit redcross.org/pets

By Katie Pippin

Communications Volunteer