Help your pet remain happy and healthy during the colder months by following these simple guidelines:

• Don't leave dogs outdoors when the temperature drops. A pet's feet, ears and other areas of the body not covered by hair can easily become frostbitten. Most dogs and all cats are safer and happier indoors, except when taken out for exercise.
• The salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of your pet's feet. Because their paws are irritated they may lick them burning their mouths and ingesting the chemicals. Therefore, when bringing the pet back indoors wipe its feet with a damp towel.
• If your dog is an outdoor animal, he/she must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold his/her body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with straw or cedar shavings, which needs to be changed regularly. Use plastic food and water dishes so the animal's tongue does not adhere to the dish and make sure the water is fresh and unfrozen.
• Holiday greenery such as mistletoe, holly and bittersweet are extremely toxic to pets and small children. The leaves of the poinsettia plant and pine needles can cause digestive problems and their sap can cause skin and eye irritation.
• And a final word for a safe and happy holiday season, please don't give an animal as a gift without first seriously considering the long term responsibilities involved. If you choose to go ahead with giving a pet, please consider adopting from your local animal shelter. There you are sure to find a friend forever.

Wishing you a safe and happy winter holiday!
Bloomingdale Animal Shelter (973) 838-2220
Bloomingdale Animal Control (973) 838-8959