Living with pets in Calgary offers many benefits — access to parks, pathways, and an active outdoor lifestyle. However, Calgary’s unique climate also presents specific health challenges for dogs and cats. From long, cold winters to sudden temperature changes caused by Chinooks, understanding how local weather impacts your pet is essential for keeping them healthy year-round.
At Sanctuary Veterinary Hospital, we regularly help Calgary pet owners manage climate-related health issues through preventive care, education, and tailored treatment plans.
Calgary’s Weather: Why It’s Different for Pets
Calgary experiences:
Long, cold winters
Sudden temperature swings (Chinooks)
Low humidity and dry air
Short but intense summer heat waves
While humans can adapt quickly with clothing and shelter, pets rely on their owners to protect them from these environmental stresses.
Cold Weather Risks for Dogs and Cats
Winter is one of the most challenging seasons for pets in Calgary.
Common winter-related health issues include:
Hypothermia and frostbite, especially in small or short-haired dogs
Dry, cracked paw pads from ice, snow, and road salt
Joint pain and arthritis flare-ups in senior pets
Antifreeze poisoning, which is extremely toxic even in small amounts
Cats allowed outdoors during winter are particularly vulnerable, as they may seek warmth near vehicles or under hoods, increasing injury risk.
What you can do:
Limit outdoor time during extreme cold
Use booties or paw balm
Keep pets indoors during severe weather alerts
Clean paws after walks to remove salt and ice melt
Chinooks and Sudden Temperature Changes
Chinooks can cause temperature swings of 10–20°C in just a few hours. These rapid changes may lead to:
Lethargy or restlessness
Increased joint discomfort
Changes in appetite or behavior
Pets with arthritis, heart disease, or respiratory conditions may be more sensitive to these shifts. Regular wellness exams help detect underlying conditions that can be worsened by sudden weather changes.
Dry Air and Skin Issues
Calgary’s low humidity affects pets just as much as people.
Common signs of dry-air irritation include:
Itchy skin
Flaky dandruff
Excessive scratching or licking
Dull coat appearance
Dry indoor heating during winter can worsen skin problems for both dogs and cats.
Helpful tips:
Ensure pets have constant access to fresh water
Use vet-recommended diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Ask your veterinarian about supplements or medicated shampoos if itching persists
Summer Heat and Overheating
Although summers are shorter, Calgary can experience intense heat waves. Dogs are particularly vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
High-risk situations include:
Exercising during peak afternoon heat
Leaving pets in parked vehicles
Limited access to shade and water
Flat-faced breeds, senior pets, and overweight animals are at increased risk.
Prevention tips:
Walk dogs early morning or evening
Always carry water
Never leave pets in vehicles, even briefly
Parasites Still Matter in Calgary
Many pet owners assume parasites are only a warm-climate problem, but this is a common misconception.
In Calgary:
Fleas can survive indoors year-round
Ticks are active during spring and fall
Intestinal parasites can be picked up from parks and pathways
Year-round parasite prevention is strongly recommended, even during colder months.
Mental Health and Reduced Winter Activity
Shorter days and cold weather often mean less outdoor exercise, which can affect your pet’s mental well-being.
Signs of boredom or stress include:
Destructive behavior
Excessive barking or meowing
Weight gain
Anxiety
Ways to keep pets engaged indoors:
Puzzle feeders and enrichment toys
Training sessions
Interactive play
Scheduled routines
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, especially during Calgary’s long winters.
Why Preventive Veterinary Care Matters in Calgary
Because Calgary pets face unique environmental challenges, routine veterinary care is essential. Regular wellness exams allow your veterinarian to:
Detect early signs of joint disease
Manage skin and allergy conditions
Adjust nutrition and supplements seasonally
Monitor weight and mobility
Preventive care helps avoid emergency situations and improves your pet’s quality of life throughout the year.
Final Thoughts
Calgary’s climate is part of what makes the city special — but it also requires extra awareness when caring for pets. By understanding how weather, temperature changes, and dry air affect your dog or cat, you can take proactive steps to keep them healthy and comfortable in every season.
At Sanctuary Veterinary Hospital, we’re proud to support Calgary pet owners with personalized care designed for Alberta’s unique environment.