MILWAUKEE - Dogs get frostbite too.

That’s just one of the winter weather messages the Wisconsin Humane Society is trying to get out to the public as we continue to dig out from a string of early December snowstorms.

“If it’s too cold for you to go outside, then it’s probably too cold for your dog to go outside,” said Angela Speed of the Humane Society as she held a chocolate lab mix in her arms. “Sometimes we hear stories about people who leave their dogs outside during this weather and that’s not safe for any animal.”

Click on the link under related content to see an interview with Angela Speed.

But there are other, less obvious, lessons the Humane Society wants us to know. For instance, chemicals used to melt ice pose a very real threat to dog paws. It can cause irritation, cracking and even bleeding. Speed recommends we use pet friendly ice melt products and always clean an animal’s feet after being outside.

Another winter hazard faced by dogs and cats alike is antifreeze. Any antifreeze puddles should be cleaned up quickly. Just a few licks of the toxic substance can kill an animal.

Mary Aiello adopted a rambunctious golden retriever named Riley Thursday night and plans to follow all of that advice.

“He’ll sleep in the bed with us,” she confessed with a laugh.