Pets may be sensitive to cold temperatures

Keeping pets happy, healthy and warm during colder weather may be easier with some expert tips.

"There are a variety of dangers associated with cold weather and pets," said Dr. Kathleen Neuhoff, American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) president. "Pet owners can take a few simple steps to ensure that their pet braves the cold winter months."

AAHA offers the following tips:

Take pets for a checkup before cold weather kicks in. Your veterinarian can check for medical problems that might make your pet more vulnerable to the cold.

Keep pets inside when the mercury drops. If you must leave your pet outside, provide appropriate shelter against the wind, thick bedding and fresh water.

Depending on their size, age, health and thickness of their fur, some animals are more vulnerable to cold than others. No pets should stay outside for unlimited amounts of time in extremely cold weather.

Cats will curl up against almost anything to stay warm-including car engines. Before you start your engine, check beneath the hood.

If you light a fire or plug in a space heater, keep it safely out of range of tails and paws. Pets can burn themselves or knock a heat source over, endangering the entire household.

Be particularly gentle with elderly and arthritic pets during the winter. The cold can leave their joints extremely stiff and tender and they may become more awkward than usual. Consider modifying their environment to make it easier for them to get around.

When you’re outside with your pets during the winter, watch them for signs of discomfort. If they whine, shiver, seem anxious, slow down or stop moving, or start to look for warm places to burrow, they need to be taken inside.

The American Animal Hospital Association is an international organization of more than 27,000 veterinary care providers who treat companion animals. For more information or to find an AAHA hospital near you, visit via the Internet www.healthypet.com.

This story was provided by the North American Precis Syndicate.