Winter is now in full force and with that comes cold weather and snow. Our pets are susceptible to many winter hazards just like people. There are precautions you can take to make sure your pets remain safe and healthy throughout the winter season. Here are some cold weather tips to keep pets safe:

* Dogs especially small short hair breeds, suffer from the cold despite their seemingly warm fur coats. Therefore, it is a good idea to take your dog outside only as needed. For those times that they are out in the cold, a sweater may help keep dogs warm.

* Snow and ice can disguise outdoor scents and dogs can easily become lost. More dogs disappear during the winter than any other season, so it's best not to let your dog off its leash in snow or ice.

* Cars can become freezing in the cold weather. It is not a good idea to leave your pet alone in a car during the winter season.

* Thoroughly wiping off your pet's legs and paws after being in the snow or ice will help prevent them from ingesting salt and other chemicals that could be harmful if swallowed.

* Dogs run a good chance of catching a cold any time they get wet, so bathing your dog only when necessary is a good wintertime precaution.

* It's generally a good idea to keep your cat indoors year-round, but especially during the winter months.

* It's a good idea to increase your pet's supply of food, particularly protein, to keep fur thick and healthy through the winter months.

* To keep your pets comfortable at night, make sure they have a warm place to sleep such as in a basket or cardboard box with a blanket in it.

Enjoy the remaining winter months with your pets and keep these handy to ensure their well-being.