December weather can be difficult not just for humans but for pets as well. Pets often face some of the same problems as humans such as frostbite and injury during the winter season. In addition, the lives of pets are often put in danger during the holiday season. I would like to take this opportunity to advise Town of Hempstead residents about the dangers pets may face this winter.

Pets' feet are not covered by much fur so they are vulnerable to frostbite. Signs of frostbite include pale skin that is cool to the touch. After thawing, frostbitten skin may look burned. If you suspect your pet is suffering from frostbite, contact your veterinarian immediately. In order to avoid this danger, you may want to consider covering your pet's paws with pet boots.

Also be cautious when letting your pet outside when there is snow on the ground. Ice and snow can disguise scents and disorient pets, increasing their chances of getting lost. To avoid this problem with dogs, it is always best to keep them on a leash. Jagged ice and sidewalk salt are also real dangers for pets, as they may damage the pads of your pet's paws. Check their feet when they come back inside and wipe the pads off with a damp towel. Antifreeze is deadly to pets when ingested. Unfortunately, cats and dogs are attracted to its sweet smell. Keep pets away from antifreeze and be sure to clean up any spills quickly.

Although holidays are a wonderful time, it can be an extremely dangerous time for pets. Many seasonal plants are poisonous to cats and dogs. All parts of ivy can be extremely toxic to pets. Holly is also toxic. One of the most dangerous seasonal plants is mistletoe, the berries of this plant are very toxic when ingested. Greens such as balsam, juniper, cedar, pine and fir have a low level of toxicity for pets. Hibiscus and poinsettias are also a danger for pets.

Household pets, especially cats, become very curious when Christmas trees are put up. Be sure that your tree is secured so that your pet cannot knock it over. Pine needles, broken ornaments and hooks can injure animals. Although tinsel is not toxic to pets, if ingested the tinsel can choke a pet or cause intestinal obstruction, and you may wish to avoid it if you own a pet. If you have anything other than plain water in the base of your tree, be sure to cover it so that pets cannot drink from it. Always beware if your pet gets too close to the lights on the tree. They can be electrocuted if they chew on the cord. You may wish to tape the cord down so the pet does not have access to the cord. Candles are another danger. Pets are attracted to the flickering lights and they can be badly burned if they wander too close. If they knock a candle over it can cause a fire in the house.

The holidays are a time when there is a lot of food out which can be dangerous to pets. An occasional treat from your holiday table may be harmless, but too much non-pet food could leave your dog or cat with an upset stomach. There is often snack food left on low tables, which can be reached by pets. Try to avoid letting them have rich, fatty foods. This, too, could cause your pet to become quite ill. One of the most dangerous snacks that may be left out is chocolate. Most pets love the sweet taste, but if it is consumed in large quantities, chocolate may cause your pet to have a heart attack.

Please follow these pet safety tips so that this is a happy and healthy winter for you and your beloved family friend.