Winter is coming and there are a few hazards to watch out for when you are out and about with your canine companion. Rock salt, snow melt, antifreeze, and other cold water chemicals are very harmful to pets. Antifreeze has an attractive smell to it and pets will lick it up or off their paws. These chemicals can kill your pet within hours, so please don't allow your pet to come in contact with these substances.

The cold can be dangerous as well. Frostbite, getting lost, or even freezing to death are all very real possibilities. Keep your pets indoors, if you can, during the cold spells of winter. If you can't, please provide them with an elevated doghouse that is wind, snow and rain proof. Also, don't let your dog run off leash. The risk is there for orthopedic injuries from slipping or being hit by a car that can't stop on icy roads.