Keep Pets Safe During Winter

The City of Corpus Christi Animal Care Services (CCACS) reminds residents to take appropriate action regarding their pets and cold weather. 

If pets must remain outside, it is essential to provide them with a covered and weatherproof shelter. The shelter should be elevated from the ground, with the entrance facing away from the wind.

Pet owners should also provide blankets or towels to keep their pets warm and closely monitor them. Fresh food and water should always be available. Monitoring young and older pets is important because they are more susceptible to medical issues in the cold. Pets must be brought indoors if the temperature reaches 32° F or below. It is important to remember that if it’s too cold for you to be outdoors, it is too cold for your pets.

The requirements as outlined in the Chapter 6 ordinance for pet owners during cold weather events is as follows. 

• In the case of extreme weather conditions, including conditions in which, The actual or effective outdoor temperature is below thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit. It shall be unlawful for any person owning a canine to allow said canine to remain outdoors for any period of time without direct supervision.
• On days when the ambient temperature falls at or below fifty (50) degrees Fahrenheit, bedding shall be placed inside of any outdoor enclosure. 

CCACS officers will respond to calls regarding animals left out in the cold. Residents can file a report by calling the City’s Customer Call Center at 311 or using the free 311 app. 

Residents should check their cars before starting them, as cats and small animals may seek shelter near or under vehicles. Dogs or cats should always be supervised in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing serious injuries.