Winter Warnings
As winter is looming, we dig out our woolly hats, scarves and jumpers to wrap ourselves up warm from the cold.
Our pets deserve the same preparation for the upcoming winter months.
Here are some winter warnings that pet owners should be aware of to help our four legged friends cope with the cold.
1. Cold Winter Weather
Despite all the fur, cats and dogs are still prone to frost bite and hypothermia. The feet, nose and ears are more vulnerable to the cold weather and can peel if too cold. Just like us, pets who are elderly or sick can be more susceptible to winter's harsh conditions. So best to keep them tucked up warm indoors.
What you can do:
You could use a dog jumper or coat. Make sure you have a few so your dog can go out in a dry coat every day. A wet jacket could make your dog colder.
Keep your cats indoors at colder times of the year. No pet should be left outside for long periods of time when it is freezing outside.
Keep your pets dry after being outdoors. Wet fur loses its insulating ability.
Remove ice or snow from their paws to prevent frost bite.
2. Cats Seek Out Cars
Outdoor or stray cats often seek out the warm engine of a car. They feel safe and fall asleep. But this is far from safe and sadly causes many cat injuries or even fatalities.
What you can do:
Keep your cats indoors on colder days and nights.
Check under your car and bang on the bonnet before starting the engine.
4. Chemical Killers
Antifreeze leaks and spills can be fatal for our pawed pals. They are attracted to it's sweet taste but antifreeze is toxic for cats and dogs and if ingested should be taken to the vets and treated immediately.
What you can do:
Clean up any spills immediately and store antifreeze in a sealed tight container out of reach from your pets. Consider buying antifreeze that does not contain Ethylene Glycol (the ingredient that is sweet and toxic).
When the roads have been salted or gritted because of ice, this can be a hazard for our pets precious paws. Not only can this cause irritation on their paws. If they then lick their paws, they are eating the salt. Salt is harmful to dogs and cats, causing stomach upset or illness.
What you can do:
Rinse their feet after every outing and dry their paws too. Wet paws can become cold paws quicker.
5. Festive Food, Foliage and Fun
The tree, tinsel, lights and other decorations can be a hazard for our pets.
What you can do to make Christmas as pet friendly as possible:
The Christmas tree is tucked away in a corner.
Tinsel and other ornaments are hung up high out of reach.
Be aware of fallen pine needles as they can cause harm if ingested.
Be aware of poisonous festive foliage. Many don't know that holly, mistletoe and poinsettia plants can make our pawed pals very sick.
Mince pies, Christmas pudding, raisins, chocolate, macadamia nuts and alcohol should never be given to your pawed pals as are toxic.
Burning candles should be placed on high shelves or mantels, out of your pet's way -- there's no telling where a wagging tail may end up. Homes with fireplaces should use screens to avoid accidental burns.
New Year Celebrations typically involve more fireworks, which for some is terrifying. Check out our other blog: 5 tips for a fear free firework night.
If you are away for the festive season or out watching a display one night and need a friendly pet care service ... Russells Animal Adventures can come and look after your furry friend to suit your needs.
