If you live someplace where the winter temperatures dip, you may already be busy collecting blankets, hats, and coats to donate human shelters. There are many ways you can help animals survive brutal cold temperatures, too.  For all animals, clean up spilled antifreeze (it’s toxic). For humans (especially the elderly), the risks associated with a fall are serious, so it’s important to clear the ice; using an earth-friendly/ pet-friendly ice melt instead of a chemical or salt, will keep everyone safe.  Here are six more simple things you can do to make your abode a winter haven.

Domestic Animals

1. If you have indoor/outdoor companion animals, now is the time to bring them indoors, especially overnight.
2. Make sure insulated housing is available – these can be homemade (on the cheap!) and may mean the difference between life and death.
3. Check out these  winter tips  for feral cats.

Wild Animals

1. Fill bird feeders. Bird feeders do not make birds “dependent,” that’s a myth. Studies prove that birds do not ever depend entirely on a single source.
2. Create a brush pile in the yard to provide naturalshelter from the chill.
3. Provide access to water.