Keep Your Pets Safe in Cold Weather (Vet Association Tips)

Fur coat or not, pets can get dangerously cold. Here's how to keep your dog or cat safe this winter, from the American Veterinary Medical Association.

1. 1: Bring Them Inside

Keep cats and dogs inside when it's cold. No pet should be left outside for long when it's below freezing. Short hair, very young, and older pets have an even harder time.

2. 2: Check Those Paws

After walks, check their paws for cracks, bleeding, or ice between the toes. In severe cold, dog boots can help.

3. 3: Wipe Them Down

Wipe their feet, legs, and belly after a walk. Ice melt and other chemicals can poison pets when they lick them off.

4. 4: Watch For Antifreeze

Clean up antifreeze spills right away, and keep the bottles out of reach. Even a small amount can be deadly.

5. 5: Bang On The Hood

Outdoor cats like to curl up near a warm car engine. Before you start the car, check underneath, bang on the hood, and honk the horn. And never leave a pet alone in a parked car.