Fall is a wonderful season, and our pets seem to love it as much as we do. They seem to perk up as the evenings get cooler and the breezy days gently warn of the cold to come.

Dogs seem to be even more excited about walks in the autumn crispness, and cats seem to love playing in the leaves, no doubt looking for the mice busy beneath.

But even as we enjoy the brisk beauty of fall, we need to remember that it means winter is around the corner – and with it, an awareness of seasonal challenges for our pets.

Primary among these, of course, is cold weather.

The weather – heat in the summer, cold in the winter – is certainly of most importance to outdoor pets. We don't agree with the practice of keeping dogs and cats outdoors all their lives. These pets are often lonely and bored, and are more likely to suffer from physical neglect.

That said, we realize that some people won't bring animals in the house, no matter what. If you're one of those people, you must provide adequate outdoor shelter. And the time to review your pet's shelter is now.

Animals need to be able to get out of the elements. A pet must have a well-insulated structure just large enough so that it can curl up inside to maintain body heat. The structure should also have a wind-block to protect it from wintry blasts. In the colder parts of the country, it should also have some sort of outdoor-rated pet heating pad. And be sure that there's always a supply of fresh, unfrozen water by using a heated bowl.

Animals that spend any significant amount of time outside will need more calories during cold weather. Food is fuel, and they'll need to burn it to stay warm.

A final outdoor caution: Remember to thump on your car's hood on cold mornings. Your neighbor's cat may be nestled against the engine for warmth, and thumping the hood will get the animal to skedaddle to safety.

Indoor pets don't face the challenges outdoor pets do, but winter can be uncomfortable for them as well. For pets with arthritis, cold weather can be more painful, so ask your veterinarian about supplements or prescription medications that may help your pet feel better. A soft, heated bed may be much appreciated, too, especially by older pets.

And remember that one of the best things you can do for a pet with joint problems is to keep the extra weight off: A pet who's more sedentary in winter needs to eat less.

What about sweaters and coats for dogs? Some animals really can use the extra insulation of a well-fitted sweater: older pets and dogs that are tiny (such as Chihuahuas) or that are shorthaired and naturally lean (such as greyhounds or whippets).

Overcoats can save you time drying your dog if you walk in inclement weather, especially if your pet is longhaired. And don't forget to wipe your pets' feet, legs and belly after they've been outside to keep them from ingesting any de-icing solutions.

Because home heating systems can dry the air, you and your pets may be more comfortable if you introduce some humidity. Birds, especially those species originating in tropical climates, will enjoy extra opportunities for bathing or being misted.

Cold-weather pet care is a matter of compassion and common sense. Use both in equal measure, and your pet will get through the worst of the season in fine shape.

Pet Connection is produced by a team of pet-care experts headed by veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and journalist Gina Spadafori. E-mail them at petconnection@gmail.com or visit www.petconnection.com. Back columns: www.sacbee.com/spadafori.