Winter weather can be tough on your pets, too

The brutal cold weather this winter isn’t just bad for humans. It can be difficult on pets, too.

As of Tuesday, millions of people in Texas remained without power as subfreezing temperatures locked down the region. The power outages are so severe that the Electric Reliability Council of Texas is conducting controlled outages.

Meanwhile, the Great Lakes and Northeast are forecast to receive yet more snow and freezing rain. Also, the South and Midwest could see more snow and ice on Wednesday.

Let’s break down some of the key issues to watch for, how to solve it and how much it’ll cost you:

Skip dog grooming for now

If you feel cold, it’s likely your pet does, too. For dogs, the American Humane Society suggests keeping their coats longer so they can stay warm. Do you typically cut your dog’s hair short? Skip that for now. For dogs with shorthaired coats, consider buying them coats or sweaters to warm them.

h How much? On websites, PetSmart and Petco, dog coats range between $ 15 and $ 45, while sweaters go for between $ 9 and $ 30.

Avoid flaky skin

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals advises dog owners to keep baths to a minimum. Regular bathing can “remove essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin,” says the nonprofit group. ASPCA also suggests using a moisturizing shampoo or rinse if you need to give your dogs a bath.

h How much? Prices on moisturizing shampoos range from $ 9 to $ 20 at pet stores. Amazon also sells skin soothers for dogs that cost $ 15-$ 20.

How to protect dogs’ paws

Walking on salt, ice and other materials can be rough on a dogs’ feet. Look out for cracked paw pads or bleeding, says the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dogs can build up ice in between toes. Owners can use petroleum jelly to protect paws or purchase booties, says ASPCA.

How much? Prices for a variety of dog boots range from $ 12 and $ 40.

What to do before and after dog walking

Be sure your dog is microchipped and wears a collar. The American Humane Society says more dogs are lost during winter than any other season. Experts advise cleaning dogs’ paws after they go outside in case they step in potentially dangerous materials such as salt or antifreeze. Owners can consider buying de- icing salts that are pet- friendly.

h How much? Pet- friendly ice melt costs as little as $ 10 at some retailers.

GETTY IMAGES Keep your dog’s coat longer or buy sweaters to beat the cold.