Humane Society of C. Oregon offers advice, tips on how to keep your pets safe this winter season

(Update: Adding video, HSCO interview, their list of tips)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- With winter weather having definitely arrived in Central Oregon and more on the way, you should not only keep yourself safe but your furry friends too. Keeping pets indoors and out of the snow for long periods of time is one way you can prevent harm from the cold.

If you do walk your dogs, the American Red Cross recommends protecting their paws from ice melt and other chemicals by using petroleum jelly or rubber boots. Make sure to wipe paws before they can be licked, as ice melt is toxic to dogs.

The American Red Cross also says to check your cars' engine compartment before going on your morning commutes, as smaller animals like to keep warm in your cars.

As frigid temperatures and snow hit Central Oregon, the Humane Society of Central Oregon would like to remind people to provide extra care for their pets.

•  Pets are best kept inside.

•  Bring your pet inside when the temperatures drop, also consider the wind-chill factor.

•  Dogs and cats can get frost bitten ears, nose, and paws if left outside.

•  Seniors, young, small and short coated animals are vulnerable in the cold.

•  If your pet must be kept outside:

-Provide a dry, elevated dog house with clean dry bedding and a flap over the opening to

            keep drafts out. Heated pet beds are available.

      -Make sure the water bowl does not freeze. Heated water bowls are available.

            -Outdoor pets need more calories to produce body heat.

            - Oregon laws regarding adequate Shelter and Minimum Care are ORS 167.310 to 167.351.

•  Make sure a cat has not crawled under your car seeking shelter and warmth near the engine. Tap on hood before starting the engine.

•  Booties allow your dog to walk in the snow and prevent injury from ice and snow melt.

•  Dog jackets and sweaters are more than fashion, they will keep small, senior and single coated dogs warm.

•  Chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate paws.  Buy “pet safe” ice melters. Wash off paws if pets have walked through chemicals.

•  Keep antifreeze, salt and other household poisons away from pets.

•  Watch your pet around heating stoves to prevent burns and dehydration.

•  Horses, chickens and other livestock need winter care too:

            -Make sure there is clean, dry bedding.  Moist bedding can cause infection.

            -Make sure water in trough does not freeze.   

            -Have hooves checked and prepared for winter.

Protect your pets with preventative care. The Humane Society of Central Oregon rents crates for $5 a month to keep pets safe and warm indoors. For more information call the Humane Society of Central Oregon at 541 382-3537 or visit hsco.org.