MiskaMoo wants to talk to all of you out there who have pets.

Not all animals are equipped to deal with the harsh cold temperatures like us wolves are.

Most dogs and cats cannot be out in below-freezing weather for very long. Wolves have an extra inner layer of fur which protects us even when it is freezing outside. Wolves are wild animals who have adapted to our environment.

It does not take very long for your pet's paws to freeze when the temperature is below zero. Wolves have blood vessels which are closer to the surface of our skin on our paws, and this helps keep our paws from freezing.

Older pets have an even harder time when it is cold. As you age, your circulation is not as good as when you were younger. Also, joints get stiff and achy in the cold.

Another thing that people sometimes overlook is that the pet has no water when it is freezing outside. The pet's water bowl will freeze and then he cannot drink! Snow is not a good way to get moisture. You burn up valuable calories and lose body temperature melting the snow in your mouth.

The very best rule of thumb is not to leave your pet outside any longer than you would stay out. Your pet is one of your best companions and depends on you to take care of him (or her). Remember, treat your pets as the friends they are!

The black dog in the photo is Duchess, the pet dog of my friend John. Duchess lives inside where it is warm, and likes it that way!