Red Cross offers winter tips for pet owners

The American Red Cross has offered some tips for pet owners during the cold winter months.

Tips include:

• A reminder that salt and other de-icing chemicals can irritate pet’s paws. Owners should wipe paws with a damp towel before a pet can lick them.

• Antifreeze is a deadly poison and should be stored out of reach and spills should be cleaned up quickly.

• Signs of frostbite include discoloration of the frozen area and no pain, or lots of pain.

• If a pet has frostbite, spray the area with warm water and lightly apply a warm compress. Do not rub or apply pressure. Take the pet to the vet immediately.

Pet owners can get more information by downloading the American Red Cross Pet First Aid App at wwww.redcross.org/apps, through app stores or by texting GETPET to 90999.