A major winter storm slammed the US Gulf Coast Tuesday, blanketing parts of a region largely unaccustomed to extreme winter weather with record-breaking snowfall.

Pensacola had official total of 7.6 inches, while Milton hit 8.8. Unofficial totals by Weather Service could be as high as 9.8 inches.

Learn about the dangers of keeping dogs outside in cold weather and essential tips to keep them safe and comfortable during winter.

What to Know As extreme winter weather and low temperatures threaten much of the country in the upcoming days, it is important to make sure family, friends and neighbors are safe. This concern should also extend to our four-legged,