Japanese municipal authorities are issuing a warning to dog owners to be extra vigilant while walking their pets in snowy conditions. The recent shout-out advises against allowing pets to consume snow due to hidden risks it may possess. This stems from incidents reported where dogs have fallen sick after ingesting potentially harmful substances hidden in the snow during their walks.

In Japan, where the bond between pets and owners is deeply valued, animal welfare and safety are of utmost importance. Laws regulating animal protection are strict, seen especially in urban and suburban areas where snowfall is heavy. Such public notice is an indicator of the culture of care for pets that Japan practices, alongside their safety-first approach for everyone, including animals.

In the US and the EU, similar precautions are often communicated via local governments, animal welfare organizations, or veterinary associations. The cautionary messages vary based on weather conditions or region-specific hazards, but the common end is to promote responsible pet ownership and keep animals safe.