BANGOR – Even though dogs and cats have fur coats, when they are left outside in the cold they still can suffer from frostbite, exposure and dehydration when water sources freeze. Cold weather spells extra hardship for “backyard dogs.”

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals urges pet owners to keep animals inside, particularly puppies and kittens, elderly animals, small animals and dogs with short hair, including pointers, beagles, pit bulls, Rottweilers and Dobermans during cold weather. Short-haired animals also benefit from a warm sweater or coat on walks.

During winter, cats sometimes climb under hoods of cars to be near warm engines and are badly injured or killed when the car is started. To help prevent this, bang loudly on the hood of your car before starting the engine. Animals also can become disoriented when there is snow or ice on the ground. More animals are lost during the winter than in any other season.

Increase food rations during winter because they are burning more calories to keep warm. Also, be sure animals are free of internal parasites, which can rob them of vital nutrients.

PETA urges pet owners to wipe off pets’ legs, feet and stomachs after they come in from the snow. Salt and other chemicals can make the animals sick if they ingest the salt and ice-melting chemicals while cleaning themselves.