Don't forget pets when preparing for winter's cold. Here's what experts recommend – WHYY

Go behind the headlines: From the economy and healthcare to politics and the environment – and so much more – On Point talks with newsmakers and real people about the issues that matter most. On Point is produced by WBUR for NPR.

As a potential snowstorm threatens to blanket the Philadelphia region and beyond, here are some tips to keep pets safe in the cold.

As wintry weather settles in, it brings risks for pets as well as people. Pet owners can take steps to keep their animals warm and safe, including learning about the dangers of extreme temperatures, buying weather-resistant accessories, and stocking up on extra supplies in case of power outages or storms.

“The best time to prepare for weather is before you have that weather,” said Dr. Michael Bailey, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. “The same thing you would do for children in your house, do for your pet.”

That means understanding the signs of hypothermia and frostbite, avoiding antifreeze and de-icing chemicals, and taking steps to mitigate the effects of snow, rain, wind and ice.

Read the full article →

Now retrieving an image set.

Pedigree Dentastix Large Breed Dog Treats, Fresh Flavor, 1.87 lb. Bag (36 Treats)

(48570890)

$14.89 (as of January 20, 2026 20:04 GMT -06:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Now retrieving an image set.

Milk-Bone Original Dog Treats Biscuits for Medium Dogs, 10 Pound

(48578143)

$14.98 (as of January 20, 2026 20:04 GMT -06:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Now retrieving an image set.

Blue Buffalo Health Bars Crunchy Dog Biscuits, Oven-Baked with Natural Ingredients, Pumpkin & Cinnamon, 16-oz Bag

(47546580)

$4.98 (as of January 20, 2026 20:04 GMT -06:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Now retrieving an image set.

Fresh Step Clumping Cat Litter, Multi-Cat, Long Lasting Odor Control Kitty Litter with Activated Charcoal, Low Dust Formula, 14 lb

(46591748)

$10.49 (as of January 20, 2026 20:04 GMT -06:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Now retrieving an image set.

Pur Luv Chicken Jerky Dog Treats, Made with 100% Real Chicken Breast, 16 Ounces, Healthy, Easily Digestible, Long-Lasting, High Protein, Satisfies Dog's Urge to Chew

(46527087)

$14.94 (as of January 20, 2026 20:04 GMT -06:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)