Just like people, who bundle up and limit their exposure to the freezing temperatures, animals need protection from the harsh winter weather too.

Along with providing adequate shelter and limiting your pet's time outside to prevent frostbite, pet owners should be vigilant of other seasonal hazards as well.

"One of the things I think people forget at this time of year is the antifreeze and rock salt," said Pam Salomone, public relations and special events director for Hinsdale Humane Society. "The rock salt can irritate animals' footpads, and obviously antifreeze is highly poisonous."

While antifreeze may smell and taste good to a pet, it is lethal.  Salomone recommends checking driveways and areas where your pet may walk to make sure the chemical has not collected.

"Dogs tend to eat and lick and consume anything that is within their reach," Salomone said.

Rock salt, used to melt ice on sidewalks, can bother pets' paws.  The Humane Society recommends rinsing and drying pet's feet after time spent outdoors. They can also wear little shoes on their paws.

Making sure the sidewalk is pet-proof doesn't mean humans have to slip on ice.

"You can find pet-safe salt out there," said Lila Mufti, owner of The Modern Dog Boutique in Clarendon Hills. "It's safe for pets if they walk on it."

Both Mufti and the Humane Society recommend a jacket or sweater to keep particularly short-haired dogs warm when outside.

"It really does depend on the breed," Mufti said.

But even if a dog has thick coat of fur, a windproof jacket or coat can keep them comfortable.

"It also keeps them dry, especially if it's sleeting and snowing out," Mufti said.

Wet pets should be towel or blow-dried, according to the Humane Society.  Paws should be cleaned and dried to prevent tiny cuts and cracked pads.

At this time of year Mufti sees an increase of customers asking for beds for their pets so they have a warm place to sleep.

According to the Humane Society, pets should be kept away from drafts while inside. Tiles and uncarpeted areas can become very cold. Blankets and pads can be placed on floors in those areas to provide warmth. When using supplemental heat sources, make sure all fireplaces have screens and portable heaters are out of reach.

It's also important to remember that foods safe for humans could hurt an animal. Turkey and chicken could cause a lot of problems for a pet if they ingest bones that shatter and splinter. Grapes, raisins and grape juice are toxic to pets, Salomone said.

"Chocolate is bad as well," Salomone said. "A lot of people have a lot of extra chocolate around for the holiday."

And sugar-free chewing gum containing Xylitol is also toxic to pets.

Holiday plants used to decorate also pose a danger to animals.

"There are plants out there that are poisonous to cats and dogs," Salomone said.

Among the common holiday plants that could harm a pet are poinsettia, holly and mistletoe.

A list of plants and other household items to keep away from your pet can be found on the Humane Society's Web site. Click on the "poison awareness" link.

With pets spending more time indoors, it's a good idea to have activities to keep them occupied, Mufti said.

"Keeping your dog mentally active is just as important as keeping them physically active," Mufti said.

A treat-release toy or dog puzzle can keep a pet pet busy.

"That will burn off some of their energy." Mufti said.

The Hinsdale Humane Society recently shared several tips to keep pets safe during the winter, including the following:

Bring your pet inside: Don't leave your pet outside in the cold for long periods of time. Wind chill makes the air colder than actual temperature readings. Be attentive to your pet's body temperature and limit time outdoors, especially to prevent frostbite on ears, tail and feet. Regardless of the season, short-haired, very young or very old dogs and all cats should never be left outside without supervision.   Short coated dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater during walks.

Provide adequate shelter: Adequate shelter is mandatory by law. If your dog lives outdoors, you must provide a well-insulated and draft-free doghouse. The opening should face south with a sturdy, flexible covering to prevent icy winds from entering. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and the doorway should be covered with straw, not hay. Avoid towels and blankets, which can easily dampen and make the space colder.

Provide plenty of food and water: It takes more energy in the winter to keep body temperature regulated, so your pet needs additional calories if he spends a lot of time outdoors or is a working animal. Routinely check your pet's water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and water bowls rather than metal as when the temperature is low, your pet's tongue can stick and freeze to metal. And, remember that snow is not a substitute for water.

Groom regularly: Your pet needs a well-groomed coat to keep him properly insulated. Short or coarse-haired dogs might get extra cold so consider a sweater or a coat. Long-haired dogs should have their paw hair clipped to ease snow removal and the cleaning of their feet.