The best ways to keep your pets safe this winter

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — While we can easily layer up before facing winter weather, it's not as easy for pets. Short-haired and small animals can have an especially difficult time adapting to cold weather.

"Something like a newfoundland or a husky with a huge hair coat is made to be outside, but I wouldn't say a little chihuahua with a low hair coat should really be outside at all when it's this cold," said Lynn Cali, a Veterinary Technician at Covenant Animal Clinic. " The longer the hair coat, they're going to have a better time keeping themselves warm out there."

With cats, the cold can lead to frostbite on their ears. Cali said they often see stray cats come in who need the tips of their ears removed because of frostbite.

They also frequently see pets coming in with irritation on their paws from both cold or road salt.

"Be careful with ice on the ground," said Cali. "Their paws can get super cold and freeze. And be careful with salt. Some of the salts that the city might put out on the streets or sidewalks may not be pet safe, and that can really irritate their feet, so you'll want to rinse their feet off at the very least when you come back in. "

Antifreeze is also a frequent issue for pets in the winter. While most pet owners know to keep their pets away from jugs of the chemical, they don't realize it can still cause problems after its been inside the car. If there is even a small leak, enough of the chemical can be left on the ground for a pet to lick it up and get sick.

When in doubt Cali recommends just keeping on eye on your pet. You should be able to tell if they are having any problems or acting differently.