Additional coverage of this same incident and a surge of arctic cold are forecast to arrive in Ohio later this week and into the weekend of Dec. 13–14, 2025, prompting veterinarians to warn pet owners to protect their dogs from frostbite and hypothermia.

The National Weather Service issued a three-day forecast for the state on Dec. 10, 2025, at 2:41 p.m. ET that shows several inches of snow and a polar vortex pushing bitter temperatures into the region. The expected pattern has veterinarians and animal-care groups urging extra caution during outdoor time for dogs as temperatures drop.

Veterinarians across several organizations offered direct warnings about the risks. Dr. Sarah Wooten of Hill’s Pet said, “If dogs are outdoors in freezing weather too long, they’re at risk of hypothermia, dehydration, dried or cracking paw pads, and frostbite.” Her comment highlights the range of cold-related problems practitioners say can emerge during sustained low temperatures and wind chill. They noted that prolonged or repeated exposure to these cold conditions can lead to tissue damage, long-term pain, or even loss of affected areas. How does cold weather affect your dog’s health?

Not every dog tolerates cold the same way, a point underscored by Dr. Jennifer Coates of PetMD: “A comfortable temperature for one dog might make another shiver.” Coates’s observation accompanies lists of breeds veterinarians identify as most and least tolerant of frigid weather: Siberian huskies, Newfoundlands, and samoyeds on the more cold-tolerant end, and chihuahuas, Yorkshire terriers, and Italian greyhounds among those that struggle in low temperatures. Change in Weather Means a Change in Dog Behavior has shown that cold weather can reduce outdoor activity levels, affecting both dogs and their owners’ willingness to engage in exercise during winter.

Practical limits for outdoor activity were also cited by clinicians. “32 degrees Fahrenheit is the lower limit for taking a dog on a walk,” said Dr. Nick Horniman, a veterinary surgeon at VETSbarn Veterinary Centre, drawing a clear threshold for many owners considering whether to venture outside during the coming cold snap. In addition, recommended winter gear, such as insulated dog coats and protective booties, can significantly help dogs endure the cold.

The warnings align with the forecast: meteorologists expect arctic air to move out of Western Canada into the Ohio Valley, increasing wind chill and the likelihood of snow accumulation across much of the state. That combination of falling temperatures and blowing snow raises particular concern for dogs’ extremities—ears, paws, and tails—which veterinarians say are most vulnerable to frostbite. The risk is particularly pronounced for those dogs lacking protective fur or those with prior cold exposure.

Local and regional resources offer additional guidance for pet owners preparing for the cold. Ideastream assembles practical tips and local perspectives on helping animals during frigid weather, including measures owners can take before and after brief outdoor outings. Many authoritative groups, such as the ASPCA and Humane Society of the United States, provide resources regarding the right gear for pets to ensure their safety.

Veterinary groups and clinics named in local reporting — including PetMD, Hill’s Pet, and VETSbarn Veterinary Centre — emphasize monitoring dogs closely during and after exposure to cold, and seeking veterinary care if signs of cold stress or frostbite appear. The combination of heavy snow and an arctic push elevates those routine winter concerns for dog owners across Ohio. Chronic cold stress can have lasting effects on a dog’s cardiovascular and metabolic health, making awareness vital for all pet owners.

As the weekend approaches, veterinarians say attentive, conservative decisions about outdoor time can reduce the chance of cold-related injury in dogs whose tolerance varies widely by breed, age, and health status. In this challenging weather, ensuring proper care and protection for pets is paramount.

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Original reporting: view the original article.