Winter Weather Policy

At The Empowered Companion, we tailor every visit to protect your pet from winter weather risks — including cold temperatures, wind chill, snow, rain, ice, and icy surfaces. Winter brings unique challenges, and our team follows evidence-based guidelines to ensure safety, warmth, and well-being.

Outdoor Time Guidelines

For Medium to Extra Large Healthy Pets

• Above ~45°F: Generally safe for walks with monitoring.
• 32–45°F: Safe for most dogs; shorter walks for sensitive pets.
• 20–31°F: Limited outdoor time (short walks or potty breaks).
• Below ~20°F: Potty spots only; indoor care and enrichment prioritized.
• Below ~10°F: Quick potty breaks only if needed.
• Cats should remain indoors below ~32°F, supervised outdoor time in cold is very limited.
These temperature ranges are based on veterinary sources highlighting risk increases below freezing and especially below 20°F. PetMD+1

We also adjust plans for breed, size, coat, age, and health. Short-haired, small, senior, or medically fragile pets receive extra caution.

For Small, Short-haired, Brachycephalic, Senior, or Medically Fragile Dogs

• Above ~45°F: Safe for most dogs; shorter walks for sensitive pets.

• 32–45°F: Limited outdoor time (short walks or potty breaks).

• 20–31°F: Potty spots only; indoor care and enrichment prioritized.

• Below ~20°F: Quick potty breaks only if needed.

For these dogs, we may recommend indoor exercise (snuffle mats, hallway fetch, trick training, reiki, calm connection time) in place of a traditional walk.

Weather Conditions & Safety

Veterinarians emphasize that wind and moisture make cold more dangerous. Cornell Vet College

• Rain, sleet, or wet snow increases chill risk; outings may be shortened.
• Icy or unsafe footing may change walks to potty breaks.
• Severe storms and hail are indoor care days.

Indoor Comfort

We monitor your thermostat for pet comfort. If indoor temperatures fall below comfortable ranges for pets (generally below the mid-60s°F), we may make small, temporary adjustments — always guided by your preferences and veterinary comfort advice (most recommendations keep indoor temps in the mid- to upper-60s/low-70s for pet comfort). Highlands-Eldorado Veterinary Hospital

Indoor Temperatures Below 65°F:

We may nudge the thermostat a few degrees warmer, especially for:

• Seniors

• Short-haired or hairless breeds

• Small dogs

• Medically fragile pets

• Cats who tend to seek warm, elevated or tucked-away spaces

Gear & Protection

Use of sweaters, coats, booties, and paw protection is encouraged for pets who tolerate them. If you have specific temperatures or conditions in which you want sweaters, jackets, or booties used, please let us know in your profile. If no specific instructions are given, we will:

• Use winter gear when the pet shows signs of being cold or the conditions clearly warrant it.

• Use our best judgment to protect your pet’s comfort and safety while honoring their tolerance for clothing.

Removing ice, salt, and chemicals from paws after walks protects sensitive skin. ASPCA

• Consider providing a towel or wipes for paws when inclement wether is indicated during your time away.

Indoor Enrichment

When weather limits outdoor time, our visits focus on comforting and mentally engaging activities: gentle play, puzzle feeders, brushing, reiki, and calm connection.

We document modifications and collaborate with you on preferences so that every visit is reliable, caring, and tailored.