Falling temperatures can result in rising vet bills if you don't take some extra precautions to protect your pet during the winter months.

Beware of antifreeze!
Every year at this time, we hear about dogs and cats that die from drinking antifreeze out of open containers or puddles on the garage floor," says Dr. Larry Nieman, DVM, Best Friends Veterinary Director.

"Antifreeze is extremely poisonous: as little as five teaspoons can kill a small (10-pound) dog or a cat. Unfortunately, the chemical has a sweet taste that animals like, so it's critical to keep it away from your pets. When you add antifreeze to your car's radiator, be sure to clean up even small amounts that drip onto the floor or driveway and dispose of it properly."

Dr. Nieman also recommends keeping plenty of fresh water available if your pet spends a lot of time out of doors. Otherwise, a thirsty pet may turn to antifreeze that a neighbor left out or hosed down the driveway.

If your cat comes in contact with antifreeze, or any other poisonous substance, it's important to wash your pet's coat and paws with soap and water before your cat licks it off. If you think your pet has consumed antifreeze, call your veterinarian immediately.

Cold days, warm pets
If you've kept a regular indoor-outdoor schedule throughout the fall and into the winter, your pet has probably become accustomed to the cold temperatures and is able to handle time outdoors. However, even the outdoor dog must have shelter. Provide a cozy, well-insulated dog house outfitted with deep, clean bedding, such as clean hay or straw. Be sure the interior is dry and free from drafts.

Indoor pets who are not acclimated to the winter cold should never be left outside for extended periods in cold temperatures. If you have a short-haired or miniature dog, dress him in a dog coat or sweater when you take him out and keep his walk short on extremely cold days. Puppies do not tolerate the cold as well as adult dogs, so it may be difficult to housebreak a new pet during the winter. It may be necessary to paper train your puppy until the temperatures begin to rise.

If you have an outdoor cat, be sure to provide a cat door in your garage or basement, so she can seek shelter from the cold. Also, remember that cats like to sleep under the hoods of cars in the winter. To avoid injury or death, bang on the hood and wait a few seconds before starting the engine so your cat will have the chance to escape.

How cold is too cold?
A temperature of 10 degrees Fahrenheit or below is too cold for any pet to tolerate, according to William Fortney, doctor of veterinary medicine at the Kansas State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. The physical stress of cold temperatures can make pets more susceptible to illness or infection. A pet that is very young, old or ill, will have even less tolerance for the cold.

Furthermore, if an animal gets wet, there is a severe wind chill and the animal is unable to find shelter, frostbite becomes a hazard. Generally the tips of tails and tips of the ears are most susceptible, says Fortney. "If an animal gets frostbite, gently warm the area with a wash cloth and lukewarm water. Then it's a good idea to visit the veterinarian for medical treatment to avoid infection of the area."

Other Winter Health and Safety Tips
Here are some other things to keep in mind to "winter-safe" your pet:

• Don't use metal water dishes outside; your pet's tongue could stick to the frozen metal. Purchase a non-freeze water bowl or use a heavy plastic dish and check the water several times a day to be certain it is not frozen.
• If your pet spends a lot of time outdoors, it's a good idea to increase his food, particularly protein, to keep fur thick and healthy as protection against the cold. However, if your pet is less active during the winter months because he spends more time indoors, be cautious about the quantity of good he eats, or he may put on extra weight.
• Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice. Dogs can lose their scent in snow and ice and become lost. In a snowstorm they may panic and run away. Dogs should always wear their ID tags.
• Chemicals used to melt ice on sidewalks and streets present another hazard. It can become stuck in the pads and they may lick at their paws, making themselves sick. Its' a good idea to clean your pets' feet with a cloth and some warm water to remove the substance.
• Dogs confined to the house because of winter weather may lack proper exercise and/or suffer depression-especially if they are accustomed to romping outdoors. You can help by giving them more attention and encouraging them to be active.

With a little bit of extra care you can keep your best friends safe and healthy during the harshest months of the year. For more advice on caring for your pet during the winter months, visit the website of the American Animal Hospital Association at www.healthypet.com or the American Veterinary Medical Association at www.avma.org.