Noah Johnson Daily Press Enzo, 9, a lab-mix, is originally from North Georgia but is getting accustomed to his new climate. A coat and booties keep him outside longer for his favorite activity: fetch.

ESCANABA — Residents of the Upper Peninsula are accustomed to recent cold and freezing temperatures, preparing and layering up before braving the frigid weather. While humans prepare for the cold weather, we must not forget about our four-legged companions.

“If you are cold, it is likely your pet is cold too,” said Delta Animal Shelter Operation Coordinator Vonnie Bruce.

Dr. Lisa Gartland at Bay Veterinary Clinic in Gladstone agreed with Bruce, saying if it’s too cold for a human, it’s likely too cold for a pet.

Gartland explained that a pet’s breed, specifically dogs, can have an impact on its tolerance to cold weather. Short-haired breeds and low-to-the-groudn breeds such as Dachshunds get colder faster. Arctic breeds, such as Huskies and Malamutes, have a higher tolerance for the cold.

“If they tell you they want to come in, let them in,” Bruce said.

Gartland also pointed out that older dogs also tend to get colder faster as they have less body fat and muscle.

Pet owners should be aware of potential illnesses, including respiratory diseases, frostbite, arthritis flare-ups and injuries to their paws from slipping on ice or irritation from salt.

“Wipe your dog’s feet after being outside so they do not have leftover salt on paws, utilize pet-safe salt, and keep your dog away from antifreeze,” Bruce said.

Anti-freeze is more commonly used in the winter, and animals like the taste of the liquid. It is essential to be aware of where your pet is going, as chemicals like antifreeze are highly toxic to animals.

Gartland and Bruce recommend utilizing booties and jackets as much as possible if your pet will tolerate them. “Most pets need to be trained to wear booties, as they often dislike them initially,” Gartland explained.

While out on walks, be sure to monitor the terrain and try to avoid slippery ice. Certain surfaces, such as outside steps or a deck, should be cleared of snow or winter debris as often as possible so pets don’t slip. If pets spend time outside, check to ensure their outdoor drinking water isn’t frozen.

When heading out in the morning, Gartland recommends inspecting your vehicle as animals seek warmth near the engine at night and in the early morning hours.

Like in the summer, pets should not be left in a turned-off vehicle.

“Cars act like a refrigerator in the cold weather and can get very cold fast, don’t leave your dog in a car without the heat being on,” Bruce said.

Garland pointed to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) as a great list of resources and tools for pet owners, including caretaking in the colder months.

AVMA is available at www.avma.org under the resources and tools tab.