EDITORIAL: Keep your pets warm in winter weather

We have to admit, when we see someone carrying around a little dog in a fancy purse or walking their pup in a sweater or special outfit, we giggle at the silliness. Putting our farm dog in a sweater sounds like a ridiculous — and impossible — task.

Spoiling our pets with fancy sweaters and designer travel cases isn't a priority, but we do make sure our pets have a warm spot on these cold winter days and nights. Often in winter, we see dogs roaming along the highway or through our towns, and we'd like to take this time to remind you to keep your pets safe and warm through these cold spells.

Making sure your pets have plenty of food and their water bowls aren't iced over helps protect them. Pet owners should ensure they have a warm shelter, even if it's outside, to retreat to when it gets cold. You wouldn't send your kids out in the cold without proper precautions. Many people think of their pets as a second set of kids, and they deserve some of the same attention. It's our responsibility when we decide to take pets into our homes.

We aren't going to change our ways and buy mittens and sweaters for our cats and dogs, but sometimes we all need a little reminder to take care of our animals the same as we do any other family members. They deserve a little TLC once in awhile, too.