By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

The American Red Cross wants to help people better care for their pets during the harsh, winter weather.

Some tips they’ve given is that salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate pets’ paws and advise wiping them with a wet washcloth as soon as they come into the house, so if they lick their paws, their mouths won’t become irritated. They also give information about how to look out for, how to care for and how to prevent frostbite.

The Pet First Aid app from the American Red Cross that has these tips and help for other common first aid emergency situations is available at redcross.org/apps or by texting GETPET to 90999. More information for winter weather safety is available at redcross.org/wintersafety.