Protecting Animals During Historic Winter Storm
Millions of Americans are being urged to safeguard their pets and livestock as a significant winter storm approaches the United States.
The national animal welfare organization, Animal Wellness Action, made this appeal in a press release on Friday.
“With extremely low temperatures and widespread ice and snow forecasted for this weekend, animals—ranging from household pets to farm animals—are at considerable risk. This storm poses a threat not just to people but also to animals who can’t advocate for themselves. This is particularly critical in the southern states where such cold is uncommon and preparedness is limited,” stated Wayne Pacelle, the group’s president.
The Weather Channel reported that this storm could unleash destructive ice and heavy snowfall across over 30 states in the South, Midwest, and Northeast.
The National Weather Service emphasized the seriousness of the situation on Friday afternoon, urging everyone to take the storm seriously.
Animal caretakers need to thoughtfully consider their pets’ needs during such extreme weather conditions.
Animal Wellness Action recommended that pet owners keep their dogs, cats, and other companion animals indoors throughout the storm.
“Outdoor pets risk death from hypothermia, frostbite, dehydration, and starvation, especially if their food or water freezes. A reliable source of unfrozen water and regular checks will help pets stay hydrated and generate body heat,” the organization elaborated.
Moreover, more than 20 million roosters, often kept outdoors for cockfighting, face dangerous conditions without sufficient shelter, food, or insulation. These animals are typically kept outside with minimal protection and may suffer from severe cold stress if temperatures dip below freezing for an extended period. The organization is calling for enforcement authorities to ensure these animals receive humane protection during extreme weather events.
They also highlighted that animals in southern regions may not be accustomed to such harsh conditions. Owners should pay close attention to providing non-frozen water, proper shelter, dry bedding, and extra nutrition to help animals maintain their body temperature.
Dr. Jim Keene, DVM, and director of veterinary medicine at the Center for Humane Economics, noted that more energy is needed in cold weather. Extra food and protection from harsh conditions are crucial for survival.
“In extreme cold, animals don’t die from snow; they perish from wind chill and insufficient calories. Providing unlimited access to high-energy feed and shelter from the wind are the most effective ways for owners to protect livestock and poultry during winter storms,” Keene explained.
In an update on Friday night, Fox Weather indicated that millions are on alert for the storm, which is likely to cause power outages along its 2,000-mile path and is described as “one of the worst winter storms to strike the United States in recent years.”
“Cities like New York, Washington, Atlanta, and Dallas are preparing for what is anticipated to be an extreme winter storm that will deliver a combination of snow, ice, and dangerous cold,” the report mentioned.
