Safety
Winter Care Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe in Manitoba
Winter brings unique challenges for pets, from frostbite risks to dry skin. Adjust outdoor routines, use protective gear, and provide safe indoor activities to keep their furry friends healthy and comfortable.
Jan 12, 2026
5 min. read
When the thermometer plunges, your pet feels the cold just as much as you do. Whether you’re bundling up for a quick walk or navigating icy sidewalks after a snowfall, winter brings unique challenges for our four legged family members. A few simple precautions can help keep them warm, comfortable and protected all season long.
Know Your Pet’s Cold Weather Limits
Pets have different levels of tolerance for the cold depending on their size, coat type and overall health. Pay attention to how your dog reacts outdoors and adjust your routine as needed. On extreme cold weather days or during wind chill warnings, keep outings short and focused on essential breaks. Short haired dogs often benefit from a winter coat or sweater that covers the belly and extends to the base of the tail. Long haired breeds may not need the extra layer, but a light trim can help prevent ice balls, salt and de icing chemicals from clinging to their fur.
Protect Their Paws From Salt and Ice
Sidewalk salt, ice melt products and frozen surfaces are common across Manitoba in winter. Before heading outside, apply a pet safe paw balm or a thin layer of petroleum jelly to help shield pads from salt and chemical de icers. After each walk, wipe their paws thoroughly to remove residue.
Booties offer even better protection and help keep paws warm on frigid days. If your pet isn’t used to them, introduce booties gradually so they become part of the routine.
Watch for Frostbite During Deep Freezes
Paws, ears and tails are especially vulnerable to frostbite. Redness, cracking or crusting are signs to contact your veterinarian. Keeping nails trimmed can also help prevent slips and nail injuries on icy surfaces.
Keep Them Active Indoors
When the wind chill makes outdoor time uncomfortable, look for ways to keep your dog mentally and physically engaged indoors. Local agility classes, flyball sessions or indoor training facilities can be great options. At home, try hiding treats, using a snuffle mat or creating a DIY obstacle course to help burn energy and beat the winter blues.
Cold Weather Safety for Cats
If you bring plants indoors for the winter or receive holiday bouquets, double check that they’re safe for cats. Many common plants, including holly and lilies, are toxic to felines. Provide warm, safe sleeping spots throughout your home so your cat can choose the coziest place to curl up. Use caution with space heaters and fireplaces; they can cause burns or contribute to dry, itchy skin.
Extra Peace of Mind for Manitoba Pet Owners
Winter can be unpredictable, but your pet’s health coverage doesn’t have to be. CAA’s partnership with Pets Plus Us offers insurance plans that help protect your pet from eligible accidents or illnesses.
Learn more about what coverage is the perfect fit for you and your furry friend. Also, CAA Members receive a discount of 13.5% off pet insurance with Pets Plus Us1.
Terms and Conditions
1CAA Members receive a discount of 13.5% off. Non-members receive a discount of 9% off when purchasing through the CAA online portal.
The information herein is summarized. All Pet Insurance plans have limitations and exclusions. Specific products, features, coverage limits, rates, and discounts may vary by province, eligibility, and are subject to change. Medical Conditions that are noted, symptomatic or diagnosed prior to enrollment, or during a waiting period are pre-existing to Coverage and not eligible for reimbursement. This advertisement is an outline only, the actual policy issued Terms and Conditions will prevail.
© 2025 All rights reserved. Pets Plus Us Pet Insurance policies are underwritten by Northbridge Insurance and distributed by PTZ Insurance Services Ltd. Pets Plus Us Pet Insurance is available in all provinces and territories. Pets plus Us, Pets Plus Us & Design and related words and logos are trademarks and the property of PTZ Insurance Services Ltd. For the terms and conditions, click here.
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