Brrrrr!

When winter strikes, your pets feel the same harsh winds, snow, and freezing temperatures as you do.  So, like you, they need extra protection.

While cats should be kept indoors all year round, those cats still encouraged to go outside in winter can easily get frost-bitten ears or freeze altogether.  Left on their own to find warmth, many cats crawl into car engines, where they get hurt or killed when it starts.

Dogs should be kept inside too.  However, if your dog enjoys spending some time outdoors, be sure she has access to a dry, draft-free shelter with enough room to stand up and turn around in, yet small enough to retain her body heat.  Raise the floor a few inches off the damp ground, and put in a layer of cedar chips or straw for the added warmth your dog needs.

If you put your pets in the garage or basement, move all toxic substances well out of their reach.  Also, clean up any antifreeze from the floor.  Dogs and cats love the sweet taste, but just one little lick can be lethal.

During severe weather, only let your pet out to relieve himself.

And whenever you bring your pets in from being on snowy or icy roads or walkways, check their paws for salt or other deicing chemicals.  You can protect their paws by putting vaseline on them before they go out, then wiping their paws off when they come back into the house.

Remember, your pet is part of the family and the best way to make her feel that way and protect her from the cold too is to keep her inside with you.

Provided by American Humane Association