Cold Weather Preparedness: Keeping Houston Pups Safe, Cozy & Cared For ❄️🐾

Winter weather in Houston may be rare, but when cold temperatures roll in, preparation is everything, especially when it comes to caring for our dogs. At Houston Bark Park & Daycare, your pup’s safety, comfort, and routine are always our top priorities. With an upcoming stretch of winter weather, we want to share how we prepare for cold conditions and what we’re doing to ensure your furry family members are well cared for this weekend. We will also include tips and tricks for things to do at home.

Dogs enjoying a rare snowy day at Houston Bark Park & Daycare during past winter weather in Houston.

How We Prepare for Cold Weather

Cold snaps bring unique challenges, and our team takes proactive steps to stay ahead of them, including:

• Monitoring weather forecasts closely and adjusting operations as needed.

• Ensuring indoor spaces stay warm, dry, and comfortable.

• Modifying play schedules to limit cold exposure.

• Stocking extra bedding, blankets, water, and enrichment activities.

• Planning staffing to ensure dogs are always supervised—day and night

Our goal is simple: dogs are never left alone, and their care is never compromised

How Pet Parents Can Prepare at Home

We also encourage pet parents to take a few extra precautions during cold weather:

• Limit time outdoors and dry paws thoroughly after walks

• Provide warm bedding and draft-free sleeping areas

• Keep pets indoors during freezing or icy conditions

• Ensure collars and tags are secure in case of unexpected weather-related escapes

Cold weather enrichment and supervised outdoor time at HBP during past winter events

Cold Weather Essentials

Whether you’re preparing for a brief cold snap or an overnight stay, having a few extra supplies can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort and safety:

• Extra water for your dog – Cold weather can sometimes disrupt access to clean water, so keeping extra on hand is always a smart move

• Paw protection (like Musher’s Secret) – Helps protect paw pads from cold surfaces, ice, and drying conditions

• Dog booties – Great for dogs sensitive to cold pavement or icy ground

• Warm jackets or sweaters – Especially important for short-haired, small, senior, or low-body-fat dogs

These small steps can go a long way in keeping your pup happy and healthy during chilly weather.

What We’re Doing This Weekend

Your pups’ safety (and our team’s) always comes first. Due to the upcoming winter weather, reservations scheduled at our Maxie location will be moved to our Shepherd location from Saturday through Monday.

This decision helps:

• Keep more employees safely off the roads

• Ensure a trained team member can stay overnight with the dogs

In addition:

• Our Energy Corridor and Shepherd teams will be on site overnight, so dogs are never left alone

If conditions become icy, additional staff will not travel in, but a trained team member will remain with the dogs at all times

Daycare dogs staying active and supervised during cold weather at Houston Bark Park & Daycare.

Thank You for Your Understanding

We truly appreciate your flexibility and trust during weather-related adjustments. Every decision we make is focused on keeping your pups safe, cozy, and well cared for, no matter what the forecast brings. Stay warm, stay safe, and give your pups an extra cuddle from us this weekend! 🐾❄️