Charleston-area animal shelters warned pet owners Tuesday to bring animals indoors as freezing temperatures sweep across the Lowcountry, threatening young animals, senior pets and those with medical conditions.

Temperatures dropped below 32 degrees overnight in Charleston County, prompting Charleston Animal Society and other local shelters to issue urgent advisories about cold weather dangers.

“We see an increase in emergency cases during cold snaps like this,” said Joe Elmore, spokesperson for Charleston Animal Society. “Hypothermia and frostbite can set in quickly, especially for animals left outside overnight.”

The National Weather Service forecast shows temperatures remaining below freezing through Thursday morning, with wind chills making conditions feel even colder. Such prolonged cold spells are relatively rare in the Charleston area but pose serious risks when they occur.

Shelters across Charleston County reported increased intake requests this week as pet owners sought temporary housing for animals they cannot bring indoors. The Charleston Animal Society facility on Folly Road opened additional kennel space to accommodate overflow from other agencies.

County animal control officers responded to 14 calls about animals left outside in freezing conditions Monday and Tuesday, according to Charleston County records. Officers have authority to remove animals from dangerous situations and cite owners who fail to provide adequate shelter.

Small dogs, elderly animals and those with thin coats face the greatest risk during cold weather events. Breeds like greyhounds, chihuahuas and whippets lack the body fat and fur density needed to regulate body temperature in freezing conditions.

Pet owners should bring animals indoors when temperatures drop below 45 degrees, shelter officials said. Those who cannot bring pets inside must provide heated shelters, dry bedding and unfrozen water sources.

Charleston city ordinances require pet owners to provide adequate shelter from weather extremes. Violations carry fines up to $500 and potential animal seizure. The city typically sees enforcement actions increase during severe weather events.

Local veterinary clinics reported treating several cases of cold weather exposure this week. Dr. Sarah Mitchell of West Ashley Veterinary Clinic said her practice treated three dogs for hypothermia symptoms Tuesday morning.

“We’re seeing pets brought in with shivering, lethargy and disorientation,” Mitchell said. “These are classic signs of cold exposure that require immediate attention.”

The cold weather compounds existing challenges for Charleston area shelters already dealing with overcrowding. Charleston Animal Society reported operating at 110% capacity before the cold snap, with additional animals now seeking temporary placement.

Shelter officials emphasized that brief outdoor bathroom breaks pose minimal risk for healthy adult dogs. However, extended periods outside can quickly become dangerous as wind chill factors drop temperatures below actual readings.

Cats face particular risks during cold weather as they often seek warm hiding spots under car hoods or in engine compartments. Pet owners should check vehicles before starting engines and look for signs of animals seeking shelter.

Feral cat colonies throughout Charleston County also face increased dangers during freezing conditions. Several local animal welfare groups coordinate efforts to provide heated shelters and monitor vulnerable outdoor cat populations.

The Charleston Parks and Recreation Department suspended some outdoor programming this week due to cold conditions but kept dog parks open with posted advisories about weather risks. Park rangers patrol facilities to ensure pet owners follow safety guidelines.

County officials noted that cold weather emergencies often strain resources as both domestic and stray animal populations require assistance. The situation becomes more complex when power outages leave pet owners without heating options.

Animal control agencies coordinate with emergency management during severe weather events, similar to how Charleston’s 2025 Flooding Report Card Shows Another Historically Bad Year required multi-agency responses to protect residents and pets during flood events.

Shelter capacity issues reflect broader challenges facing local government services throughout the region. Budget constraints limit expansion options while demand for animal services continues growing as Charleston’s population increases.

Charleston County Council allocated $2.3 million for animal services in the current budget, including emergency weather response capabilities. However, shelter officials say funding remains insufficient to meet growing demand during crisis situations.

The cold snap is expected to break by Friday as temperatures return to seasonal norms in the upper 40s and low 50s. Weather forecasters predict no additional freezing conditions through the weekend.

Shelter officials plan to maintain expanded capacity through Thursday as a precaution. Pet owners seeking temporary shelter assistance can contact Charleston Animal Society at 843-747-4849 or visit the facility at 2455 Remount Road.

County animal control continues monitoring compliance with shelter ordinances and responding to reports of animals in distress. Citizens can report concerns by calling 843-202-7000 during business hours or 911 for emergency situations.

The next Charleston County Council meeting is scheduled for February 18, where officials may discuss cold weather response protocols and animal services capacity issues under Politics & Government agenda items.