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 is 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 pets safe, healthy and happy during the winter months.

—While the Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society believes all pets should be kept inside during extreme weather spells, pets living outside need their shelters lined with straw. Fire-proof, hard-surface heating pads can also be used for added warmth. Be sure all shelters adhere to the law of adequate cover and allow pets ample room to stand, turn around and lie down. In cold weather, shelters must also be warm, dry, draft-free and offer pets protection from other threats;

—Pets who stay inside will enjoy the warmth of an extra blanket when the cold weather sets in. (Beware of blankets ...