When winter is upon us, we need to focus on the special needs of older dogs, who can be especially susceptible to the extremes of temperature and other stressful, dangerous conditions of winter.

(1) Does your older dog need a sweater? How about a raincoat? Wet fur decreases your dog's ability to fend off the cold. Even if she's never needed these before, as she gets older, she'll be less able to keep herself warm with activity.

(2) Is your dog's sleeping area free from drafts? Is there a blanket and thick mattress pad for her to snuggle under/sleep on?

(3) Does your dog have ready access to unfrozen water? It is preferable for all dogs, including seniors, to live indoors with their family, but, if that's not possible for your dog, ensure there is always a source of water to drink that remains unfrozen.

(4) Never leave anti-freeze in a place that is accessible to your dog. If it spills on the garage floor, wipe it up immediately and rinse the area clean with lots of water. The sweet smell of it is attractive to dogs. Anti-freeze is a poison.

One good solution to the antifreeze problem is a propylene glycol formulation. PG isn't near as toxic as EG. It is slightly less efficient as an antifreeze, but still protects down to -26 F at the standard 50/50 blend with water. Good enough for most of the country. You can go as low as -76 F. Sierra was one of the first brands to offer it. Last time I was at Wal-Mart they had Prestone Low Tox for the same price as regular.

I have run it is my old truck for years. It is almost time to dump the factory fill in my car. I will be putting the Prestone Low Tox in it. And yes, I will carefully dispose of the old.

Last year when I was ringing bells for the Salvation Army, I had to tuck little Nita under my coat. At 3 months and 22 pounds, Holly is already beyond that. She should be OK to be out by then.