"Warm-blooded mammals can't survive the kind of cold weather we have along the Wasatch Front without adequate protection," warns Gene Baierschmidt, executive director of the Humane Society of Utah.

Baierschmidt urges animal owners to take appropriate precautions during the beastly winter weather.

Cats and dogs should be kept inside the house, in a basement or a garage. Pets that are young, old, ill or have short hair should never be kept outdoors.

"Although [pets] are out of the elements [in a garage], a garage may not be adequate shelter with the cold temperatures we have in Utah," says West Valley City Animal Shelter supervisor Karen Bird. "An animal needs to use its body heat to keep warm. A garage is just too big to hold in body heat."

Bird says the enclosure should be just large enough for the animal to sit up and lie down. More space will allow body heat to escape. The shelter should be insulated, both around and underneath, and should be elevated. The door should face south or west and be shielded by a heavy plastic flap. Clean straw is preferred over fabric for bedding, and it should be changed frequently.

Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that may attract animals and children. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze (and all household chemicals) out of reach. Better yet, use antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol; if swallowed in small amounts, it will not hurt pets, wildlife, or your family.