Here are some suggestions to keep your pet comfy, cozy, and healthy when the winter winds blow:

• If you own a shorthaired dog, provided the pet with a warm sweater for those cold winter walks.

• Keep your old pet's bed raised slightly off the floor and away from drafts.

• Your pet may look for a warm resting place, so keep a fire screen around a fireplace hearth and a wood burning stove.

• Using metal water dishes outside in winter may be a risk, because your pet's tongue could stick to the frozen metal and the water can easily freeze over. Consider a self-warming water dish.

• Space heaters pose a triple threat--your pet may chew the cord, burn itself on the heater, or knock it over and cause a fire.

• If your dog enjoys playing in the snow, take the normal precautions against frostbite and watch for cracked pads or tiny cuts in the feet.

• Don't let your dog ride in the back of a pickup truck. Along with the potential of losing your dog in an accident, winter adds the possibility of frostbite.

• Road salt can burn your pet, so check the paws, mouth, and belly after a walk.

• Keep a towel and an old throw rug by the door. Following outdoor activity, dry your pet's chest, underbelly, and feet.

• The outside dog must have a well-insulated doghouse that has deep, clean bedding and is free from drafts.

   Information for these tips are from the Well Pet News.