When the temperature dips below freezing, there are several important facts to consider with your dogs and cats.

An outdoor or stray cat might seek warmth under a car’s hood. It is best to bang on the hood or beep the horn before starting your car. Both cats and dogs who are allowed to roam may become disoriented in a snow storm or blizzard. It is best to keep them inside under these conditions.

Just as in summer weather, do not leave cats or dogs in the car when it is really cold outside. Cars will trap the cold air making for fatal conditions for your pet. Leave them home rather than parked in a car while you do your errands.

If you walk your dog in the snow or sleet, wipe off their feet, legs and stomach when you return. Salt on the sidewalks and roads can cut into their pads and cause bleeding. Also, if your dog is allowed to lick the salt, it can be very dangerous. We all know about dogs and cats and antifreeze. If you use antifreeze in your car, be sure to completely wipe up any spills. Additionally, it is best to use products containing propylene glycol versus ethylene glycol.

A puppy’s fur is not as thick as an adult dog’s fur. Also, their feet are not as calloused. Older dogs may also be less tolerant of the cold due to weakened immune systems and arthritis. Only take puppies and older dogs out to go to the bathroom in freezing weather.

Let your dog grow his winter coat. When grooming, just trim the hair. Do not shave close to the skin. If you have a short haired dog, it is a good idea to invest in a sweater.

When walking your dog, be sure to avoid large patches of ice. Dogs can break a leg or rip a tendon or ligament if they go sprawling. These types of injuries take a long time to heal. So avoid the ice!

Cats or dogs left outside for extended periods of time can get hypothermia. This is a condition where the body temperature dips below normal. Signs of hypothermia include shivering and lethargy. Consult your vet if you think your pet is suffering from hypothermia. Frostbite can also occur in your dogs or cats. Do not rub the frozen tissue because this can cause additional tissue damage. Seek help from your veterinarian.

When it is cold outside, baby, keep ’em inside!!