How Did My Tropical Dogs Handle Snow? Adapting to a New Environment

Hi, I’m Allison! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my three mixed-breed dogs from Thailand, Jelly, Lorraina, and Manic.

Have you ever been to Thailand? Or, at least, have you seen photos of this gorgeous Southeast Asian country? To state the obvious, Thailand gets HOT. The average temperature is in the mid-80s. While the northern part of the country sees lows in the 50s during certain times of the year, some areas (like Bangkok) can reach 100°F or hotter. For many people visiting the country for the first time, Thai weather slaps you in the face like a hot, damp towel.

My dogs were born and raised there, so I was concerned about how they would react to the weather on the East Coast of the States. How would my tropical fur babes handle cold weather and, gasp, snow?

Transition From the Tropics to East Coast Uncertainty

Calling all people who live on the East Coast of the USA, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic area! We know how flippant the weather is. The temperature could fluctuate in early Spring from the low 60s to the high 20s and then to the mid-40s. We could have clear, sunny skies and then acorn-sized hail. My state has an unofficial motto: “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.”

When we decided to relocate back to the USA in early March, I had some concerns about the weather. I assumed it would not snow and that the bitter sub-zero temperatures had passed. However, it would still be at least 30 degrees colder than what my dogs were used to. The coolest day I had ever experienced in Thailand was the mid-70s.

So, I ordered dog coats ahead of time just to be safe. You can never really plan the week weather-wise.

Welcome to the USA! Sorry About the Weather

After days of travel, we finally arrived home. Thankfully, my state decided to give us a break and bestowed us a gorgeous sunny day with a temperature of 60°F. This was a good transition. It was not too cold and not too hot. I did not want it to be too hot, thus giving my dogs a false impression that the temperature here would be equal to the tropics.

We let them explore their surroundings, absorbing new smells and sights. Right now, their world was brown, a stark contrast to the vibrant greenery they had always known.

“It’s okay, my babies,” I said to them. “Your world will be green in a few months. I promise.”

On their second day in the USA, they woke up to snow. It was time for the coats! Manic liked his coat, and I thought he looked quite handsome. The girls, on the other hand, hated those coats with a passion. I admit they were a bit big for them. I ordered them online, and while I took measurements, the coats were not a perfect match. However, I insisted on them.

They went into the gray and brown world, slowly becoming speckled with white. I expected them to be a bit fearful. However, they showed no hesitation. They were like children experiencing snow for the first time, making slightly apprehensive movements and bounding around excitedly.

Granted, Jelly and Lorraina were fine leaving the snow after about 15 to 20 minutes. Perhaps it was the chill in the air and the snow on their feet, or they wanted to get out of those coats. Manic, however, insisted on staying out for as long as he could. He was in love with this winter wonderland.

I was thrilled that they were adjusting to the weather. If they can get through snow, they can get through anything the Mid-Atlantic throws at them.

However, I am not looking forward to tornado season.