Winter on the Front Range is beautiful — but for pets, it can be a season packed with hidden risks. Between bitter cold snaps, busy holiday schedules, and travel logistics, local veterinarians and animal-welfare groups consistently see a rise in pet emergencies this time of year.
The Metro Denver Animal Welfare Alliance (MDAWA), a coalition of more than 20 shelters, rescues, and community partners, works year-round to support Colorado’s pet families. And as winter settles in, they’re sharing what they see most often — and what families can do to stay ahead of seasonal hazards.
A Sneaky Dog Named Monty (and How He Helped Inspire This Advice)
For Anna Jaeger, who facilitates MDAWA, these winter concerns aren’t theoretical. Her husky-poodle mix, Monty, recently delivered a real-life reminder of how quickly things can go wrong.
“Monty is incredibly sweet — and incredibly sneaky,” she laughs. “He managed to snatch a piece of raw sourdough off the counter before I even knew it was missing.”
Luckily, because MDAWA regularly shares seasonal safety guidance with its members and community, Anna knew raw dough can be dangerous for dogs. She rushed Monty to the vet, where he received care right away and made a full recovery.
“It was a small moment that could have become a big emergency,” she says. “That’s exactly what happens in a lot of homes this time of year.”
Why Winter and Holidays Are Riskier for Pets
Colorado is one of the most pet-loving states in the country, with more than 64% of households owning at least one animal. That means winter can have a widespread impact — and the data reflects it.
Across Colorado, animal shelters and veterinary clinics regularly report increases in:
- Cold-related injuries like frostbite and hypothermia
- Toxicity cases from dough, chocolate, alcohol, and seasonal plants
- Lost pets escaping through open doors during gatherings or storms
- Paw injuries from ice melt and frozen surfaces
- Emergency vet visits during holiday weekends and travel periods
The combination of weather, disrupted routines, and holiday festivities creates a perfect storm for accidental pet hazards.
Traveling for the Holidays? Plan Ahead for Your Pets
Whether families choose to travel with pets or leave them at home, the holiday season requires extra preparation.
Before booking flights or packing suitcases, pet families should:
- Confirm pets are microchipped and ID tags have current contact information
- Check that vaccinations and medical records are up to date
- Arrange boarding or pet-sitting well in advance — spots fill quickly
- Gather any necessary medications or anxiety-reducing tools for travel
- Research vet clinics along your route if you’re driving long distances
Even well-adjusted pets can become stressed by travel, new environments, or loud holiday gatherings. A little planning goes a long way.
Cold Weather: More Dangerous Than It Looks
Colorado’s winter temperatures can drop suddenly, and even dogs with thick coats can be at risk.
MDAWA recommends:
- Limiting time outside during freezing weather
- Ensuring outdoor animals have insulated, wind-protected shelters
- Offering warm bedding away from drafts
- Wiping paws after walks to remove salt and chemical ice melt
- Keeping antifreeze, de-icers, and winter chemicals stored securely
- Tapping the car hood before starting the engine — cats often crawl under cars for warmth
Even quick bathroom breaks can be dangerous during extreme cold snaps. If you’re uncomfortable outside, your pet likely is too.
Holiday Hazards Inside the Home
The holidays bring beautiful décor and delicious food — but many seasonal staples can be harmful to pets.
Common household hazards include:
- Chocolate and rich holiday foods
- Rising dough, which expands in a pet’s stomach
- Alcohol, especially unattended cocktails during gatherings
- Tinsel, ribbon, and small ornaments that can cause blockages
- Poinsettias, lilies, mistletoe, and holly, all of which can be toxic
Hosting a party? Setting up a quiet room with toys, water, and a comfortable bed can help pets avoid stress — and stay safe from open doors, spilled food, and startled reactions.
Small Steps Make a Big Difference
Colorado families deeply love their pets — and MDAWA stresses that winter pet safety is about mindfulness, not fear.
Preparing for the season doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about awareness, a little planning, and paying attention to the details that can catch families off guard.
Keeping pets warm, safe, and supported through winter ensures everyone — humans and animals alike — can enjoy the season comfortably.
