Many people are under the false impression that just because animals have a furry coat they are not susceptible to the dangers associated with cold weather. This couldn't be farther from the truth, in fact pets can get too cold or even suffer frostbite when exposed to freezing temperatures just like their human companions.

Keep your pets warm and safe this winter with the following tips:

• Bundle up- Don't scoff at the idea of a dog wearing a sweater! Smaller breeds or those with short hair need the added protection that animal coats or sweaters offer in warding off the cold.

• Bring them in- Dogs are social animals and thrive on the attention and companionship offered by their human family. If you have an outside dog, please consider bringing them into your home, especially at night. Not only will your pet be happier, you won't have to worry about them freezing during the cold months of winter. Cats may not be as social as their canine counterparts, however they will be happier with a warm safe place to call home when the temperatures drop.

• Provide extra food and water- Domesticated animals rely on their humans for food and water. This is important all year round, however during the winter months you may need to increase the amount of fresh water and food available for your pets consumption. If an animal is kept outside or spends a lot of time outside they will need more food and water to keep their energy levels up. It takes a lot of energy to stay warm during the winter months.

• Avoid seasonal dangers- Antifreeze and other chemicals used to treat icy conditions in the winter can be harmful to pets if ingested. They can also irritate the pads of your pet's feet, therefore pets should be closely monitored as exposure to these products can cause sickness or even death.

• Provide outside protection- If you must keep your animals outside this winter, take the time to ensure they have adequate shelter to ward off the cold. Dog boxes should be built off of the ground with a layer of cedar shavings or straw to provide added protection. The structure should be free of drafts with a door covering that keeps out wind and precipitation. The correct size will depend on the size of your pet; the shelter should be big enough to comfortably sit or lie down yet small enough to retain the animal's body heat. Insulated shelters should be made available for outside cats as well.