Think back to last weekend’s blast of winter weather and even the days leading up to it. Remember the biting wind and cold and how you couldn’t wait to make it from your car inside to warm up?

Now, consider how a creature one-tenth the size of a person and without the protection of that down parka, scarf and gloves probably gave. 

At first glance, pets may seem especially well prepared for the elements with their fur, but they are just as susceptible to the effects of winter weather as humans. As the mercury drops, it’s important to remember if the weather is too cold for people to be comfortable outdoors, the same goes for pets.

The following are some tips to keep your pet safe, healthy and happy during the winter months.

—While GMHS believes all pets should be kept inside during extreme weather spells, if your pets lives outside, ensure their shelters are lined with straw. Fire-proof, hard-surface heating pads can even be used for added warmth. Be sur...