Renting With Pets

Following these easy steps will help you in a successful search of pet-friendly housing.

Give yourself enough time
No one likes the hassles involved with moving, much less finding rental housing that allows pets. If possible, start to check ads and contact real estate agents and rental agencies at least six weeks before you plan to move.

Understand why many housing communities reject pets.
Put yourself in the shoes of a landlord, housing manager, property owner or condominium association board member for a moment. They may have had bad experiences with irresponsible pet owners who didn't safely confine their animals or pick up their feces, sneaked pets in, or left ruined carpets and drapes when they moved out. They may be worried about complaints from neighbors about barking dogs and wonder how they're going to effectively deal with pet owners if problems arise. All of these concerns are legitimate. That's why people looking for an apartment, house or condominium to rent must be able to sell themselves as responsible pet owners, who are committed to providing responsible pet care and being responsible neighbors.

Make use of available resources
Contact the humane society or animal care and control agency serving the area into which you are moving. The agency may be able to provide you with a list of apartment communities that allow pets. If you know any real estate agents, rental agents or resident managers who own pets themselves or who share your love of animals, ask them for leads. Look for a community apartment guidebook at the supermarket or near newspaper distribution boxes on the street. Thus guide may indicate which apartments allow pets and may list restrictions, such as breeds allowed or weight limits.

Recognize that it may be futile to try and sell yourself and your pet to a large rental community with a no-pets policy.
You're more likely to be successful if you focus on places that allow most pets, allow certain pets or that don't say "sorry, no pets." Individual home and condominium owners may be easiest to persuade. Ideally, look for a community with appropriate pet-keeping guidelines that specify residential obligations. That's the kind of place that's ideal for pet owners because you'll know that other pet owners there are also committed to being responsible residents.

Gather proof that you're responsible.
The more documentation you can provide attesting to your conscientiousness as a pet owner, the more convincing your appeal will be to your future landlord. Compile the following documents:

• A letter of reference from your current landlord or condominium association verifying that you are a responsible pet owner.


• Written proof that your adult dog has completed a training class, or that your puppy is enrolled in one.


• A letter from your veterinarian stating that you have been diligent in your pet's medical care. Supply documentation that your pet has been spayed or neutered and vaccinated against rabies. Sterilized pets are healthier, calmer, and far less likely to be a nuisance to neighbors. Most veterinarians routinely fulfill such requests for their clients.

Make your request to the individual or group with the ultimate authority to grant your request.
Usually this will be the owner of the house or apartment. The owner may, however, delegate the decision to a property manager or resident manager. Check to see if, in addition to obtaining the landlord's approval, you must also submit a written request to the building's board or directors (or association, in the case of a condominium community).

If you encounter a no-pets policy, ask if this is a result of a negative experience with a previous resident.
Addressing your landlord's prior experience may show you how to present your own request most effectively.

Let the landlord, manager or condominium board know you share any concerns about cleanliness.
Point out that your pet is housetrained. Emphasize that you always clean up after your dog outdoors and that you always properly dispose of your pet's waste.

Promote Yourself
Responsible pet owners make excellent residents. Because they must search harder for a place to live, pet owners are more likely to stay put. Lower vacancy rates mean lower costs and fewer headaches for landlords and real estate agents. Let prospective landlords and managers know that you understand that living with a companion animal is a privilege, not a right.

Promote Your Pet
Offer to bring your pet to meet the owner or property manager, or invite the landlord to visit you and your pet in your current home. A freshly groomed, well-behaved pet will speak volumes. Emphasize that the same pride you take in caring for your pet extends to taking care of your home. Many landlords are concerned about fleas, so be sure to let your prospective landlord know that you maintain an active flea-control program for your pet and home. Provide written proof that your pet is spayed or neutered, and is, therefore healthier, calmer, and less likely to be a nuisance.

Make it clear to the landlord, manager or condominium board that you keep your dog under control at all times and that you understand the health and safety benefits of doing so.

If you can't arrange for a meeting, consider making a short scrapbook with photos of your pampered pet in his or her current home. Scrapbooks are unique ideas that are guaranteed to make a strong, yet positive, impression

Be willing to pay a little extra
Tell your prospective landlord or resident manager that you are willing to pay an extra security deposit to cover any damages your pet might make to the property.

Get it in writing
Once you have been given permission by a landlord, property manager, or condominium committee to have a pet, be sure to get it in writing. Sign a pet addendum to your rental agreement. Comprehensive agreements protect people, property, and the pets themselves. If your lease has a no-pets clause, verbal approval won't be enough. The no-pets clause should be removed from the lease (or crossed out and initialed) before you sign it. Be sure it has been removed from or crossed out on your landlord's copy as well.

You may be required to pay a pet deposit, some or all of which may be nonrefundable. Be sure to discuss deposits and monthly pet-related fees in advance. Have these fees put in writing as well. Let the landlord know you will abide by the rules set for the broader community and respect the concerns of residents who do not own pets.

Be honest
Don't try to sneak your pet in. Keeping an animal in violation of a no-pets rule contributes to the general inclination of landlords not to allow pets. You may also be subject to possible eviction or other legal action.

Article originally posted November 12, 2009 on the Humane Society of the United States web site
http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/renting_with_pets.html

Choosing The Right Dog

The problem with adopting a dog from an animal shelter? The selection of available canine companions can overwhelm you. Man's best friend comes in all shapes and sizes, and - of course - personalities. While almost any shelter dog can make a wonderful, lifelong companion for you ans your family, some of those bundles of energy will make less appropriate pets for you than others. The key is knowing what to look for. Here are a few things to think about:

What's Your Lifestyle?
Choosing the right dog generally means identifying the type of animal who matches your lifestyle and wants. If you live alone in a small, third-floor apartment, for instance, adopting a large, active Retriever might not be the best choice. Conversely, if you have a family of four and are looking for a companion to match your active lifestyle, such an animal may be perfect. A dog's size, exercise requirements, friendliness, assertiveness and compatibility with children should all figure into your decision.

Different Breeds and Mixes

How do you find out which dogs have the qualities you're looking for? Information is the key: learn about various breeds, visit the animal shelters, and speak with an adoption counselor for guidance.

Dogs fall into one of two categories: purebreds or mixed breeds. Most animal shelters have plenty of both. The only significant difference between the two is that purebreds, because their parents and other ancestors are all members of the same breed, are similar to a specific "breed standard." This means that of you adopt a purebred puppy, you have a good chance of knowing about how big he'll get and what general physical and behavioral characteristics he'll have.

Mixed Breeds

Of course the, size, appearance and temperament of most mixed breed dogs can be predicted as well. After all, mixed breeds are simply combinations of different breeds. So, if you know the ancestry of a particular mixed-breed puppy or can identify what type of dog he is, you have a good chance of knowing how he'll turn out as well.

Mixed breeds offer several advantages over purebreds. When you adopt a mixed breed, you benefit from the combined traits of two or more breeds. You also get a dog who's likely to be free of genetic defects common to certain purebred dogs. Mixed breeds, in fact, are often considered the more "natural" dog. When you adopt a mixed breed, you adopt a unique companion.

Visit With Animal Shelters

While you're at the shelter, keep in mind that it is a stressful place for any animal. Quite often, a dog's true colors won't show until he's away from other animals and the shelter environment. So even if you walk past a kennel with a dog that isn't vying for your attention, don't count him out. He may just be a little scared or lonely.

• How Old Is The Dog? You may want to select a puppy as your new companion. However, young dogs usually require much more training and supervision than more mature dogs. If you lack the time or patience to house train your puppy or to correct problems like chewing and jumping, an adult dog may be a better choice.


• How Shy or Assertive Is The Dog? Although an active, bouncy dog may catch your eye, a quieter or more reserved dog might be a better match if you don't have a particularly active lifestyle.


• How Good Is The Animal With Children? Learning about a dog's past through a history sheet or from a counselor can be helpful, but past information isn't always available. In general, an active dog who likes to be touched and is not sensitive to handling and noise is a dog who will probably thrive in a house full of kids. Also keep in mind that puppies younger than four months of age, because of their fragility and special needs, often won't be adopted out to families with young children.

Choose a Pal for Life

Every dog in the shelter can provide you with boundless love and companionship, and every dog certainly deserves a lifelong home. But some dogs are better for you and your lifestyle than others. That's why you should take the time to make a thoughtful choice. After all, you're choosing a pal likely to be with you for 10 to 15 years - or even longer. Select the right dog, and you and your new companion will enjoy those years to the fullest.

Article originally posted November 24, 2009 on the Humane Society of the United Sates's Web Site

http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/dogs/tips/choosing_dog.html

Adopting From a Shelter or Rescue Group

Animal shelters are your best source when looking for a pet. Not only do they have a great selection of adult animals for adoption, but many of them also have puppies and purebred animals. On average, purebreds account for about 25 to 30 percent of a dog shelter's population.


Did You Know:
Many pets at your local shelter are waiting for new homes because they were obtained by someone with unrealistic expectations of the time, money and effort required to sustain a lifelong relationship with your pet. National figures indicate that about half of the animals are euthanized for lack of homes. Animals at your local shelterare just waiting for people like you to give them a new home.

You can depend on responsible shelters to assess the animals' health and temperament in order to make the best adoption matches possible. When animals are relinquished by owners, the shelter staff makes every attempt to collect a thorough history of the pet. Then, while caring for animals, staff and volunteers try to learn as much as they can about these animals, as well as those who come to the shelter as strays.

Waiting For Just The Right One:
Don't be discouraged if, when you first visit the shelter, there are no animals of the breed or type you want. Shelters receive new animals every day. Your shelter may also have a waiting list and can call you when an animal matching your preference becomes available. Before choosing your pet, you can even speak to an adoption counselor about whether your choice of a particular type or breed will be best for you.

Shelter Advantages:
In an effort to make good matches between people and animals and to place animals in lifelong homes, many shelters provide adoption counseling and follow-up assistance, such as pet parenting, dog training classes, medical services and behavior counseling. Or they may be able to refer you to providers of these services.

Another advantage to adopting from shelters is that the fees are usually much less then the purchase price of an animal from a pet store or breeder. And your new pet is more likely to be vaccinated, dewormed, and apsyed or neutered.

To locate your local animal shelters, check the links page on HRDogs4Adoption.com. All of the shelters listed have web sites that feature animals available for adoption. Some of these sites even allow you to download adoption forms directly from their site. You can also check the Yellow Pages under "animal shelters," "animal control," or "humane society. In addition, many shelters promote their animals for adoption on national web sites such as http://www.petfinder.com/. and http://www.adoptapet.com/.


About Purebred Rescue Groups:
Purebred rescue groups are usually run by people with in-depth knowledge of a specific breed. Rescue groups keep adoptable animals until they can be placed in loving, permanent homes. These animals may come from failed breeding operations; arrive from boarding kennels and veterinarians, where they were abandoned; be rescued as strays living on the streets; or obtained through the cooperation of local animal shelters. Adoption fees vary, depending on veterinary and other costs that have been incurred. Follow-up counseling is usually available.

To locate a rescue group that specializes in the breed of dog that interests you, check our links page, contact your local shelter or search the Internet. When you contact a breed rescue group, be sure to find out as much as you can about the group, how it cares for its animals, how it decides which animals are adoptable, and what other adoption and post-adoption services are available.




Portions were originally published October 28, 2009 on the Humane Society of the United States web site.
http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/adopt/tips/adopting_from_shelter_rescue.html

Top 5 Reasons to Adopt a Pet

-You'll Save a Life

- You'll Get a Healthy Pet

- You'll Save Money

- You'll Feel Better

- You Won't be Supporting Puppy Mills and Pet Stores


1. You'll Save A Life
Sadly, between 3 and 4 million dogs and cats are euthanized each year in the United States simply because too many people give up their pets and too few people adopt from shelters.
Because there is limited space at shelters, staff members sometime need to make very hard decisions to euthanize animals who haven't been adopted. The number of euthanized animals could be greatly reduces if more people adopted pets instead of buying them. By adopting from a private humane society or animal shelter, breed rescue group, or the local animal control agency, you'll help save the lives of two animals - the pet you adopt and the homeless animal somewhere who can be rescued because of space you helped free up.

2. You'll Get a Healthy Pet
Animal shelters are brimming with with happy, healthy animals just waiting for someone to take them home. Most shelters examine and give vaccinations to animals when they arrive, and many spay or neuter them before being adopted. In addition to medical care, more and more shelters also screen animals for specific temperaments and behaviors to make sure each family finds the right pet for it's lifestyle. It is a common misconception that animals end up in shelters because they've been abused or done something "wrong". in fact, most animals are given to shelters because of "people reasons," not because of anything they've done. Things like a divorce, a move, lack of time or financial constraints are the most common reasons why pets lose their homes.

3. You'll Save Money
Adopting a pet from an animal shelter is much less expensive than buying a pet at a pet store or through other sources. In addition, animals from many shelters are already spayed or neutered and vaccinated, which makes the shelter fee a bargain.

4. You'll Feel Better
Pets have a way of putting a smile on your face. Not only do they give you unconditional love, but they have been shown to be psychologically, emotionally and physically beneficial. Caring for a companion animal can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment and lessen feelings of loneliness and isolation in all age groups. Pets can help your physical health as well - just spending time with an animal can help lower a person's blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Dog walking, pet grooming and even petting provide increased physical activity that can help strengthen the heart, improve blood circulation and slow the loss of bone tissue. Put simply, pets aren't just good friends, they're also good medicine and can improve a person's well-being in many ways.

5. You Won't Be Supporting Puppy Mills and Pet Stores
Puppy Mills are "factory style" dog-breeding facilities that put profit above the welfare of the dogs. Most dogs raised in puppy mills are housed in shockingly poor conditions with improper medical care. The parents of the puppies are kept in cages to be bred over and over for years, without human companionship and with little hope of ever being part of a family. After they're no longer profitable, breeding dogs are simply discarded - either killed, abandoned or sold at auctions.
Puppy mill puppies are sold to unsuspecting consumers in pet stores, over the Internet and through newspaper classified advertisements to whoever is willing to pay for them. Marketed as coming from great breeders, well-rehearsed sales tactics keep money flowing to the puppy mill by ensuring that buyers never get to see where the puppies came from (a vital step in puppy buying). Man of the puppies have serious behavioral and health problems that may not be apparent for months, Some of these include medical problems that can sot thousands of dollars to treat, if they can be treated at all. Unfortunately a lot of people are not even aware that puppy mills exist, so when they buy a pet from a pet store, online or other retail outlets, they are unwittingly supporting this cruel industry.
By adopting instead of buying a pet, you can be certain you aren't supporting puppy mills with your money. Puppy mills will continue to operate until people stop purchasing their dogs. Instead of buying your dog, visit your local shelter where you will likely find dozens of healthy, well-socialized puppies and adult dogs - including pure breads- just waiting for that special home - yours.

What to Consider Before Adopting a Pet

If your like most people, falling in love with a pet is easy. Sharing your home with a four-legged friend can be one of life's greatest joys. Dogs give us unconditional loyalty and acceptance, provide constant companionship and even help relieve stress after a hard day's work

Adopting a pet though, is a a big decision. Dogs require lots of time, money ans commitment - more than 15 years worth in many cases. Pet ownership can be rewarding, but only if you think through your decision before you adopt a companion. The fact that your considering adopting from an animal shelter means you're on the right track. It's definitely the responsible, caring thing to do. But here are some things to think over first:

Why do you want a pet? Many people fail to ask themselves this simple question before getting a pet. Adopting a pet just because it's "the thing to do" or because the kids have been pining for a puppy usually ends up being a big mistake. Don't forget that pets may be with you for 10, 15 or even 20 years.

1. Do you have time for a pet? Dogs can not be ignored just because you're tired or busy. They require food, water, exercise, care and companionship every day of every year. Many animals in the shelters are there because their owners didn't realize how much time it took to care for them.


2. Can you afford a pet? The cost of owning a pet can be quite high. Licenses, training classes, spaying or neutering, veterinary care, grooming, toys, food and other expenses add up quickly.


3. Are you prepared to deal with special problems that a pet can cause? Flea infestation, scratched-up furniture, accidents from dogs who aren't yet house trained, and unexpected medical emergencies are unfortunate but common aspects of pet ownership.


4. Can you have a pet where you live? Many rental communities don't allow pets, and most of the rest have restrictions. Make sure you know what they are before you adopt and bring a companion home.


5. Is it a good time for you to adopt a pet? If you have children under six years old, for instance, you might consider waiting a few years before you adopt a pet. Pet ownership requires children who are mature enough to be responsible. If you're a student, in the military, or travel frequently as part of your work, waiting until you settle down is wise.


6. Are your living arrangements suitable for the animal you have in mind? Animal size is not the only variable to thin about here. For example, some small dogs such as Terriers are very active - they require a great deal of exercise to be calm, and they often bark at any noise. On the other hand, some big dogs are laid back and quite content to lie on a couch all day. Before adopting a pet, do some research. That way, you'll ensure you choose an animal who will fit into your lifestyle and your living arrangements.


7. Do you know who will care for your pet while you're away on vacation? You'll need either reliable friends and neighbors or money to pay for a boarding kennel or pet-sitting service.


8. Will you be a responsible pet owner? Having your pet spayed or neutered, obeying community leash and licensing laws, and keeping identification tags on your pet are all part of being a responsible owner. Of course giving your pet love, companionship, exercise, a healthy diet and regular veterinary care are other essentials.


9. Are you prepared to keep and care for your pet for his or her entire life? When you adopt a pet you are making a commitment to care for the animal for his or her lifetime. That said, good people sometimes find themselves in unfortunate circumstances that prevent them from keeping their pets. if this should happen, be prepared to take a proactive role in finding a new home for your animal companion.

It may seem like a long list of questions, but a quick stroll through an animal shelter will help you understand why answering them before you adopt is so important.

Many of the shelters homeless dogs are puppies, victims of people who irresponsibly allowed their pets to breed. But there are at least as many, and usually more, dogs at the shelter who are more than a year old. These animals were obtained by people who didn't think through the responsibilities of pet ownership before they got the animal.

Please don't make this same mistake. Think before you adopt. Sharing your life with a companion animal can bring incredible rewards, but only if you're willing to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility and love - for the life of the pet.

Article originally posted October 28, 2009 by the Humane Society of the United States.
http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/adopt/tips/adoption_questions_ask_yourself.html

Top 10 Dog Care Essentials

Dogs gives you a lifetime of unconditional love, loyalty and friendship. In return, they count on you to provide them with food, water, safe shelter, veterinary care, exercise, companionship and more. By taking care of these 10 essentials, you'll be assured to develop a rewarding relationship with your canine companion.

1. External Identification. Outfit your dog with a collar and Id tag that includes yourname, address and telephone number. No matter how careful you are, there's a chance your dog may become lost - an ID tag greatly increases the chance that your pet will be returned home safely. The dogs collar should not be tight, it should fit so two fingers can slip easily under the collar. Microchip Identification. Have your dog microchipped by your veterinarian. Microchip ID will ensure that your dog will be returned to you if he is lost, even if his collar came off. When scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter, your phone number, address and other vital information will show and you can be contacted.



2. Follow local laws for licensing and vaccinating your dog for rabies. Check with you local animal shelter or humane society for information regarding legal requirements, where to obtain tags, and where to have your pet vaccinated.
   


3. Follow this simple rule - off property, on leash. Even a dog with a valid license, rabies tag, and ID tag should not be allowed to roam outside of your home or fenced yard. It is best for you, your community, and your dog to keep your pet under control at all times.


4. Give your dog proper protection. A fenced yard with a dog house is a bonus, especially for large and active dogs; however, dogs should never be left outside alone or for extended periods of time. Dogs need and crave companionship and should spend most of their time with their family, not alone outside.



5. Take your dog to the veterinarian for regular check-ups. If you do not have a veterinarian, ask your local animal shelter, humane society or pet-owning friend for a referral.



6. Spay or neuter your dog. Dogs who have this routine surgery tend to live longer, be healthier and have fewer behavior problems (e.g., biting, running away). By spaying or neutering your dog, you are also doing your part to reduce the problem of pet overpopulation.



7. Give your dog a nutritionally balanced diet, including access to fresh water. Ask your veterinarian for advice on what and how often to feed your pet. Dietary requirements change as dogs get older, and a dog's teeth need to be cleaned and monitoredregularly to ensure he can eat properly.



8. Enroll your dog in a training class. Positive training will allow you to control your pet's behavior safely and humanely. The experience offers a terrific opportunity to enhance the bond you share with your dog.



9. Give your dog enough exercie to keep him physically fit. Most dog owners find that playing with their pet, along with walking him twice a day, provides sufficient exercise. Walking benefits people as much asit benefits dogs, and the time spent together will improve your dog's sense of well being. If you have questions about the level of exercise appropriate for your dog, cinsult your veterinarian.



10. Be loyal to and patient with your faithful companion. Make sure the expectations you have of your dog are reasonable and remember that the vast majority of behavior problems can be solved. Remember, not all "behavior problems are just that; many can be indicators of health problems. For example, a dog who is suddenly growling or snapping when you toush his ears may have an ear infection. If you are struggling with your pet's behavior, contact your veterinarian for advice.
    

Article originally posted October 26, 2009 on the Humane Society of the United States web site http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/dogs/tips/dog_care_essentials.html

American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT)

A number of myths surround Pit Bulls and contribute to the negative stereotype associated with these dogs. However, many of the myths are unfair and do not accurately represent Pit Bulls.

Pit Bulls are not mean, aggressive or scary at all. While any dog can become aggressive and mean if it is mistreated, with the proper training, Pit Bulls can be as loving and loyal as many other dog breeds.

Origin: United States
Male Height: 18 to 22 inches
Male Weight: 30 to 60 pounds
Coat: Short, smooth and glossy


History:
The American Pit Bull Terrier was developed from the bull and terrier type dogs who were popular for fighting bears, bulls and other dogs. These dogs succeeded at their jobs by being tenacious, athletic, strong, intelligent and courageous. They also succeeded because they responded to people. When it was time for a dog to be called away from the fight, he was expected to be handled by his owner without turning on him. Unfortunately, the APBT's reputation for being a "go-for-the-jugular" dog has stayed with him. His sleek, shiny coat, intelligent eyes and well-developed musculature make him one of the best looking breeds around, and those who understand and love the APBT know that his true nature is just as handsome.

Personality:

When raised and trained with respect and knowledge, there is no finer companion than the APBT. He is intelligent and easily trained, loving, playful, expressive, faithful and versatile. Properly trained the APBT are actually less likely to be human-aggressive than other breeds.

At Home:
The ideal environment for the American Pit Bull Terrier is a home with a fenced-in yard, where his energy needs can be met and where he can be supervised.

Recommended Activities:
The American Pit Bull Terrier is adept at tracking, obedience and weight pulling. Jogging and camping can also suit his breed.

Exercise:
American Pit Bull Terriers are high energy dogs who require an outlet for their enthusiasm. Vigorous daily exercise is necessary for a well adjusted dog. Several walks a day can keep him physically fit and mentally challenged, as can outdoor games that involve the whole family.

Feeding:
These active and ,muscular dogs need a high-quality diet. Feed two meals a day. They can gain weight easily, which puts extra strain on their joints and musculature.

Training:
Responsive and smart, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a relatively easy breed to train and has excelled in many areas that demand a high level of aptitude. A training issue with this breed can be how people perceive him which make going out with your APBT - who needs the exposure to all sorts of people and places to help him be a confident, trusting adult - sometimes difficult.

Compatibility:
The American Pit Bull Terrier is devoted to serving his family. He is kind and caring toward children and very tolerant of any accidental roughness. He will play for hours with his human children and is a natural and competent guardian. APBTs can be dog- aggressive, but with training and management, can learn to ignore other animals.

Health:
The average life span of an American Pit Bull Terrier is about 12 years. Breed health concerns include allergies; cataracts; heart disease and hip dysplacia.

Grooming:
The American Pit Bull Terriers short, smooth coat is easily managed with regular brushing using a firm-bristled brush, an occasional bath and a vigorous rubbing with a soft towel.

Copyright by T.F.H. Publications, Inc. this has been published to provide accurate and authoritative information. The techniques and suggestions described here are used at the reader's discretion.

Winter Pet Safety Tips

Here are some tips to help make sure that your dog stays healthy and comfortable during the winter months.

• Keep pets away from antifreeze solution, and promptly clean up any antifreeze spills. Antifreeze is attractive to pets but is deadly, even in very small amounts.
  
  
• Do not leave your pets outdoors unattended when the temperature gets below freezing. Pets that are most indoors need time to adapt to cold temperatures. They must build up a thicker coat and get their footpads toughened for snow and ice. Pets that get too chilled can develop hypothermia or even frostbite. Ear tips are especially susceptible to frostbite.
  
  
• Short-coated dogs (Greyhounds, Dobermans, Boxers, Boston Terriers) should not go outside without a coat or sweater in very cold weather, except to relieve themselves. Small dogs with short coats(chihuahuas, miniature Pinschers and miniature dachshunds) are especially vulnerable to cold, and may not be able to tolerate any outdoor exercise in extremely cold.
  
  
• Many dogs also need boots in cold weather, regardless of coat length. If your dog frequently lifts up its paws, whines or stops during its walks, it is demonstrating that its feet are uncomfortable cold. Be sure to get your dog used to wearing boots before the cold weather sets in.
  
  
• Dogs with long fur on the bottom of their paws often develop ice balls between the pads and toes of the feet. To prevent ice balls from forming, trim the hair around your dogs feet. Apply a small amount of Vaseline, cooking oil, or PAM spray to your dog's feet before taking him for a walk in the snow. The oil helps prevent ice balls from sticking. Make sure you use edible oil; most dogs will lick their paws after you apply the oil.
  
  
• If your pet walks on salted sidewalks or streets, be sure to wash his paws off after your walk. Salt is very irritating to footpads. Gently rub the bottom of the feet to remove the salt as soon as your dog is off the road.
  
  
• Many animals are less active during the winter, and don't burn as many calories as in the warmer months. Reduce your pet's diet during the winter, to avoid excessive weight gain. You may wish to consult with your veterinarian about the right winter food portions for your pet.
  
  

Source: University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine:
http://www.ahc.umn.edu/ahc_content/colleges/vetmed/index.cfm