The New Brunswick SPCA is asking pet owners to think carefully before leaving animals in parked vehicles during the winter.

The organization said freezing temperatures can put pets at risk of hypothermia and frostbite, even when the weather doesn’t feel extremely cold.

Chief Animal Protection Officer Tony Porter said cars lose heat quickly in winter, similar to how they heat up fast in the summer.

“People tend to underestimate how fast a vehicle can become uncomfortable for a dog,” he said.

Porter said some breeds tolerate cold better than others.

He said huskies are built for winter conditions, but thin‑coated dogs — including boxers, chihuahuas and Boston terriers — become cold much faster.

“They’re going to get colder a lot quicker,” he said.

He also noted that winter conditions can affect dogs during regular walks.

Porter said road salt can irritate a dog’s paws and that snow can build up between their pads, which can become painful.

He said owners may need to wipe their dog’s paws during a walk or use protective boots to prevent irritation.

Porter explained that dogs left outside in winter must have access to unfrozen water and a proper shelter, as required under New Brunswick’s SPCA Act.

The NBSPCA also has a code of practice outlining the standards for a suitable doghouse online.

Porter encouraged anyone who sees an animal left alone in a vehicle to contact the NBSPCA hotline at 1‑877‑722‑1522 or call local law enforcement if the animal appears to be in distress.