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High Wind Alert

High Wind Alert
by
March 12, 2026
in Humane Education Column
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By: Judy Hamontre, AVHS Vice Chair

As I write this article the strong winds are blowing loud enough to make my Gracie stay close to my side, sometimes preferring to be in my lap. It seems there are more and more of these days of winds at 15-25 mph with gusts up to 40-45 mph.

The winds are strong, but the skies are sunny with daytime temperatures in the 50’s, and it is dry. Gracie loves to be outdoors. There the sound of the wind does not seem to bother her. She is content to bask in the warm sun delighting in all the smells blowing her way. Is it safe for her to do so?

The American Veterinary Association provides some helpful recommendations to answer my question, one you might have, too.

They advise that the temperatures might be warm enough to lower concerns about exposure to cold, but with extremely strong, gusty winds, there are other ways we need to be vigilant and on “high wind alert.”

Before letting your dog outside, for potty breaks or to play, check to see fences are solid with gates tightly closed and loose yard items such as chairs, yard decorations, and flower pots secure. Go outside with your pets or from inside, watch them.

If loose dirt and yard debris are fiercely blowing about, perhaps keep your dogs inside until the wind gusts settle. Debris can get into their eyes and cause serious damage. After strong winds end, check the safety of your yard before letting your dog out. Be certain gates and fences are still secure and that nothing blew into your yard to cause harm (barbed wire once blew into mine).

So many of our dogs love their walks. Perhaps when it is windy, shorten them. Avoid dirt or sandy roads and trails that might blast your buddy with gritty dirt, sharp sand grains, rocks and tumbleweed which can cause eye irritation, inflammation, and even injuries such as scratched or scarred corneas.

Consider your dog’s age, size, and health before tackling environmental challenges that might require extra exertion, such as walking uphill against strong wind. Note that 10-15 pound dogs can be knocked over or struggle to walk in winds 20-25 mph.

Leash your dog for windy walks. The most well-trained dog can be startled by an unexpected wind gust, flying object or loud sound and suddenly bolt in fear.

A collar with ID (dog’s name and your phone number) and microchip can improve the chances of your run away dog being returned to you. Ark-Valley Humane Society offers microchipping services for $25 and engraved pet ID tags for $6 to help keep pets safely connected to their families. Calling ahead (719-395-2737) is helpful, but not required.

If walks and outdoor play are impossible, use puzzle toys, training or indoor games to burn energy.

If your dog is like Gracie and disturbed by the sound of the wind, provide a quiet, safe place to “hide” until the bad weather settles down. Play soft music or turn on the tv to help screen out the sound. Snuggle together. Stay calm and do not overreact, as our animals pick up on our emotions. Distract your furry friend with favorite games and toys.

Here in Chaffee County we live with strong, gusty winds. Our dogs can get outside to walk and play as long as we stay on “high wind alert.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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