Pull out those winter coats and bundle up — winter is here! For many of our furry friends living in the cooler parts of the country, it’s the best time of year with lots of frolicking in the snow with no hot summer sun in sight. Though they, and many of us pet parents, may be excited to get out in the winter weather, there are a few things to keep in mind to keep your pets safe, happy and healthy through the winter months. Check out our top 10 cold weather safety tips below!

Pets can freeze, become disoriented, lost, injured or even killed from being left outdoors in the cold. Keep your pets inside where they can stay cozy and safe in the winter. Also, don’t leave pets in the car alone as it can act like a refrigerator and hold in the cold air, which can result in your pet freezing and could lead to serious health concerns, including death.

You may also want to bring a towel on long walks to clean off irritated paws. While on a walk, your pet may step in ice, salt and chemicals — which can be very painful. Don’t forget to check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes!

Booties can be even more effective in covering and protecting paws when out on walks.

Repeatedly going into the cold and then coming back to a warm home can cause this skin reaction in pets. Again, paying close attention to their feet and in-between their toes will help prevent and treat skin irritation in the winter.

Longer coats provide more warmth, like wearing a winter coat! If your dog is long-haired, just trim them to minimize clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry out their skin. And don’t neglect the hair between their toes! If your fur baby is short-haired, try getting them a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from tail to belly. Your pet will not only be warm, but stylish too!

Bathing too often can remove necessary essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin. If you must bathe your furry friend, use moisturizing shampoo and/or rinse recommended by your veterinarian.

Antifreeze is lethal for dogs and cats and pet parents should be extra careful when using this chemical. Consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Additionally, cold weather chemicals like ice melts can be dangerous when ingested, so always be mindful and keep chemicals up and out of paws’ reach.

Our pets work a little harder to stay warm in the winter and therefore burn extra energy. Feeding them a bit extra can provide much-needed calories — and they certainly won’t complain! Make sure they are also drinking plenty of water, it will help keep them, and their skin, hydrated.

A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.

Dogs can lose their scent in the snow and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure your dog always wears an ID tag.

Be sure to keep these tips top of mind this winter so that you and your furry friends can stay warm, cozy and safe.