Association warns of cold-weather hazards for pets

CHICAGO (AP) - Subzero temperatures descending on Illinois can be at least as dangerous for pets as for humans.

The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association warns that cats and dogs can find it especially difficult to regulate their body temperature in the winter cold. Long-haired dogs cope better with the cold. But shorter haired dogs may need doggie coats to avoid hypothermia.

And it's not just temperatures.

Sharped edges on cracked ice can cut pets' noses or legs. And snow that gets packed in around paws can increase risks of frostbite. Boots made for dogs or cats can help.

The veterinary association says in a Tuesday statement that a lesser-known hazard is dehydration. That can happen with outdoor pets because they can't drink water that's frozen solid.