A major alert has been issued to dog owners across the United Kingdom as a bitter cold front sweeps in, blanketing many regions in snow and ice. The Met Office has activated multiple weather warnings, effective from Saturday, January 3, to Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
Weather Warnings and Travel Disruption
The forecaster warns that 1-3cm of snow could accumulate across Wales and western England by Monday morning, with some spots seeing up to 5-8cm. In north-east England, ice is the primary concern, expected to coat untreated surfaces from Saturday night into Sunday following snow showers. A Met Office spokesperson cautioned about potential travel disruption, longer journey times, and risks of injury from slips and falls on icy paths and roads.
Hidden Winter Hazards for Canine Companions
With the plunge in temperatures, experts are highlighting significant but often overlooked dangers for pets during routine walks. Ross Hallifax, from pet insurance specialist Purely Pets, stresses that a dog's fur does not make them immune to the cold. "Many owners assume that because dogs have fur, they’re naturally protected from the cold, but that’s not true," he explained.
Risk of Hypothermia and Paw Care
Prolonged exposure, especially in wet or windy conditions, can lead to hypothermia. Signs include shivering, paleness, lethargy, and poor coordination. Ross advises avoiding walks at the coldest times, opting for midday when it's warmer, and using coats for vulnerable breeds like whippets, greyhounds, and Yorkshire terriers.
Paws are particularly at risk. Road salt, grit, and ice-melt chemicals can cause painful cracking or even chemical burns on pads, and become toxic if licked. Owners should:
- Wipe paws with warm water after every walk.
- Consider using dog booties for protection.
- Trim long hair between toes to prevent ice balls forming.
The Deadly Threat of Antifreeze
One of the most severe dangers is antifreeze poisoning. Commonly used in winter, antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is highly toxic. Even tiny amounts ingested from licking paws or the ground can cause vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, or coma. Ross urges owners to store antifreeze securely, clean spills immediately, and be vigilant about paw cleaning.
Keeping dogs exercised is still essential in winter, but extra care and shorter outdoor times are crucial for their safety during this severe weather spell.
