Just like humans, animals need to be kept warm during these cold winter months. Here are a few tips to keep your dog safe and warm.

If your dog is elderly, sick or has thin fur you may want to make sure he wears a coat while outside in extreme weather. Sweaters are perfect to keep your dog warm inside during those bitter cold temps.

Make sure your dog’s bed is away from any drafty areas in the house.

Add carpet runners to tile and wood floors to prevent your dog from sliding. It will also help keep the room warmer during the winter months.

Clean your dog’s feet after a walk to remove salt, ice particles and road chemicals. They are not any easier on your dog’s feet than they would be on yours.

Hypothermia and Frostbite

Hypothermia is the drastic drop in body temperature which can result from prolonged exposure in extremely low temperatures. Leaving your pets out unprotected for several hours in freezing weather can be fatal. Hypothermia may cause heart problems, kidney failure and neurological problems.

Signs of hypothermia are:

* Shivering
* Dilated pupils
* Pale or blue mucous membranes
* Unconsciousness
* Coma

First Aid for hypothermia:

* Immediately remove the animal from the cold.
* Check for shock.
* Administer CPR if needed.
* Wrap animal in blanket.
* Place warm water bottles next to him.
* Go to the nearest veterinary hospital.

Frostbite is caused by the freezing of exposed skin or a body part. Body parts of dogs and cats are most susceptible to the tips of their ears, their tails and the pads of their feet.

Signs of frostbite are:

* Skin discoloration.
* Skin may turn pale or black.
* Lack of sensation or pain at the affected

First Aid for frostbite:

* Get the animal out of the cold.
* Gently apply a warm compress to the area.
* Spray the affected area with warm (not hot) water.
* Go to the nearest veterinary hospital.

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