January 12, 2010 (Port Washington, NY) – With cold snaps delivering frigid temperatures and dreaded wind chills, it's wise to be aware of seasonal hazards that can threaten our best friends. The pet experts at North Shore Animal League America, the world's largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization, urge pet owners to be mindful of the time their pets spend outdoors. "It's an animal owner's obligation to ensure its safety at all times, but winter especially presents a unique set of challenges. With good preparation and knowledge, pets can be safe and comfortable over the season,” advises Joanne Yohannan, Senior Vice President of Operations. North Shore Animal League America offers these tips:

1. Antifreeze and rock salt are poisonous to your pets. Keep these and other harmful chemicals out of your pet's reach or path. For an extra measure of safety, ask your retailer about eco-and-pet-friendly products.
2. Cats often take winter refuge under cars and can sometimes even make their way under the hood. Be sure the coast is clear before starting your engine.
3. Be sure to wipe your dog's feet (and stomach, with small dogs) after a winter walk. Rock salt or other ice melting chemicals can cling to your pet's fur and he can ingest these poisonous chemicals when cleaning himself.
4. All pets need to be inside. Never leave your pet outside for extended periods of time, even in a doghouse. When the temperature drops, your pet can freeze to death. If you notice a pet being locked outside in the winter, be sure to report it to your local animal control facility.
5. Keep an eye on your pet's water dish to ensure it did not freeze.
6. Short-coated dogs are especially vulnerable to the cold and shouldn't be outdoors unattended for too long a time span.
7. Most people know not to leave their pets in a car in the summer, but the same goes for the winter. A car interior can get as cold as a refrigerator and a pet can easily freeze.
8. Check your dog's paw pads for ice balls. If your dog is lifting his feet repeatedly or seems to be walking strangely, his feet are probably too cold or ice may be forming which can cause frostbite.
9. Keep your pet groomed. Knotted or matted hair doesn't adequately insulate. Brush your dog's hair regularly, especially in the wintertime.
10. Adjust your pet's diet as necessary. If your dog spends a lot of time outside, he may need more calories in the winter to produce body heat. If your dog spends most of his time indoors and has a decrease in activity, he may require fewer calories. When in doubt, always ask your vet about seasonal diet changes.

To learn more about keeping your pets safe and healthy at all times and how you can help North Shore Animal League America sustain its mission to rescue, nurture and adopt approximately 20,000 orphaned animals into loving homes each year, visit www.AnimalLeague.org.