Winter weather and temperate climates may complicate everyday activities. This is especially true for people with animal companions.

Animals are susceptible to the same winter ailments as humans, like hypothermia and frostbite, said Angela Hoover, a licensed veterinary technician at Michigan Veterinary Specialists.

It is important to consider harmful chemicals that are present during the cold season as well, she said.

“When you’re walking animals, usually dogs, in the winter, make sure they’re not licking anything on the ground that could be contaminated or poisonous,” Hoover said.

Antifreeze from automobiles has a sweet smell to which some animals are attracted, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

“Even just a lick or two could cause kidney failure,” Hoover said. Animal caregivers should keep their animals away from puddles of liquid during the winter months, she advised.

“It’s important they see a veterinarian immediately” if displaying symptoms of poisoning, like vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy,” she said.

Sidewalk salt is another danger to animal safety, according to Hoover. The salt is harmful to animals digestive tracts and can cause skin irritation. There are pet-safe alternatives to rock salt as well as animal booties to protect paws though, which are available at local retailers.

“When walking, make sure animals wipe their paws on the snow every so often,” Hoover said. “And when you get home, be sure to wash their feet.”

Smaller and shorter-haired breeds are less tolerant of the cold, according to Hoover.

She also advised that people clear of areas that animals use.

“A lot of people put small sweaters on smaller dogs,” she added. “Make sure the snow isn’t coming up to their chests, because that’s the core of their heat comes from.”

Signs of hypothermia for animals are the same as those of humans. Pale color on gums, inside lips, pigment of eyes and coolness to the touch are all warning signs for condition.

The A.S.P.C.A., on its website, advised that dogs which enjoy winter outdoor activity be fed more protein to improve the growth of their coats.

For animals taken on winter walks, Hoover advises owners to be cautious of ice.

“We see animals come in with broken legs or torn cruciate ligaments in their knees a lot during the winter time because they’ve slipped on ice just like when people do,” she said.

Hoover added that people, especially when walking larger dogs, should be careful.  “They can pull you on the ice and cause you to slip,” she said.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, an animal rights advocacy network, suggested that these dangerous conditions can be avoided by keeping your animals indoors during the winter.

More information for winter animal care is available on the P.E.T.A and A.S.C.A. web sites.