If you have a pet that stays outside, you should take special care of it when the mercury dips down below freezing.

Pet rescues offer a heads up that winter is about to arrive. They urge owners to be responsible with their pets.

They say if you have a dog that is built for this weather, make sure they have appropriate shelter. If they want to go inside, give them the option. It is the law to provide your animals with appropriate shelter.

If you have a short-haired dog that is not built for this weather, you are urged to bring them in to at least a garage or some kind of similar shelter. Dogs can and do freeze to death in their dog houses.

If you see a neighbor with a dog without shelter, you are urged to say something, but be nice- education and offering help goes a long way.

According to the National Weather Service, the outside temperature- without wind chill factored in- is predicted to fall to below zero this weekend.