Sunday's storm dropped 46 cm of snow at Toronto Pearson, the most ever recorded there in a single day, and bitter cold is sticking around. On Monday, Jan. 26, Mississauga Animal Services issued a reminder for pet owners: if it's too cold for you, it's too cold for your pets. Here is its advice.

1. Keep walks short

Dogs still need walks and bathroom breaks, but keep them brief in extreme cold or storms. Ear tips, tails, paws and noses are prone to frostbite. Intense shivering, lethargy and weakness can signal hypothermia.

2. Keep the leash on

Heavy snow and poor visibility can cause dogs to lose their way. Dogs must be leashed in public outside designated leash-free parks, and owners can be fined up to $115. Keep pets off frozen ponds and lakes, where thin ice can be deadly.

3. Match the coat to the dog

Short-haired breeds such as Chihuahuas and Italian Greyhounds may need a sweater, coat or boots. Thick-coated breeds like Huskies handle the cold better.

4. Check paws after every walk

Brush off ice balls that form between toes. Road salt and de-icers can cause irritation and chemical burns, so wipe paws clean, consider boots and use a pet-friendly moisturizer every few days to prevent cracks.

5. Watch for slips and stiffness

Icy sidewalks can lead to sprains and fractures, especially in older pets with arthritis. If your pet seems stiff or reluctant to move, a vet visit may be in order.

6. Tap the hood and lock up the antifreeze

Outdoor cats and small wildlife sometimes crawl under car hoods for warmth, so tap the hood before starting the engine. Antifreeze is poisonous to animals; store it tightly closed and clean up spills. Don't leave pets alone in a cold car.

7. Know the shelter rules

Pets can't be left outdoors in extreme weather, other than brief walks or exercise, unless they have adequate shelter. An outdoor shelter must be waterproof, ventilated, insulated on all sides including floor and ceiling, fitted with a door flap in cold weather and supplied with clean, dry bedding.

To report an animal left out in the cold, call Mississauga Animal Services at 905-896-5858 or dial 311.