When two‑year‑old Lilo, a gentle Havanese/Shih Tzu Mix slipped out the door, his family had no idea how drastically their world was about to change. Moments after he snuck out, he was struck by a truck. His owners rushed him to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital, terrified and unsure if he would survive the night.

Winter can be especially challenging for senior dogs and cats. As pets age, cold temperatures, icy sidewalks, and changes in routine can make daily life a little harder. With a few simple adjustments, you can help your older companion stay safe and comfortable all season long.

When Joseph and his family moved cross-country into their new home in Minnesota, they expected a few bumps in the road—boxes to unpack, routines to rebuild, and a skittish but beloved cat named Kale to help settle in. Kale and his sister Melinda had been adopted by Joseph seven years ago, and while both were shy, they were deeply loved. What the family didn’t expect was for Kale to vanish without a trace.