Manitoba winters are hard on us but they can also be difficult for our pets as well. Doctor Tammy Dunbar of the Portage Veterinary Hospital says your pets' cold tolerance is close to that of our own.

"Cold tolerance varies from pet to pet," says Dunbar. "It's important that we watch out for our pets in the cold. Especially our little short-haired dogs that don't have a double coat. They're a lot more susceptible to the cold weather we see in the winter. Cats should be indoors during the winter. It takes just seconds for things, especially their ears and tips of their tails, to freeze when they're outside."

Dunbar notes it's important to know the various signs of hypothermia in pets.

"Be aware of the various signs of hypothermia," says Dunbar. "They usually start with violent shivering. If it continues, they'll become quite listless and lethargic, not wanting to move and their appetite won't be very good. If you come across any animal that is showing those symptoms the important thing is to try and get them warm. Wrap them in some nice warm blankets or towels."

Dunbar cautions against using hot water bottles or heating pads as these can lead to burns very easily.

She adds another major concern for pet owners during walks should be the ice buildup on the animal's feet as well as any ice salt on the ground. Dunbar says with the salt, it gets into the space between the dog's toes and can aggravate the pads of their feet. She says it's important to clean dogs' feet when they come in after going for walks where salt and ice are present in order to stop the accumulation of ice and salt.

Dunbar says to keep in mind if it's cold outside for you, then it's probably cold outside for your pet as well.