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Looking After Pets in Cold Weather

Freezing Temperatures, Snow and Our Pets 

Winter is well and truly here in the United Kingdom with much of the country receiving snowfall and sub-zero temperatures. For us, this means wrap up warm, blast the heating system and stay warm indoors around the fire. But what does this weather mean for our pets?

Luckily, many dogs and cats will have access to the warmth of a family home during the winter weather; however, they do still require their usual outdoor exercise and stimulation time. Yes, that means you still need to walk the dog!! We should always take care of ourselves by wrapping up warm and with some very short haired dogs, such as a Whippet, they can be wrapped up in a dog coat for warmth too.

On return from a walk, it is important to dip your dogs and cats’ paws in slightly warm water as this ensures any snow blockages are removed from between the pads. If these are left then it can cause nasty sores. Salt grit used to melt ice on the pavements contains a chemical which can cause paw pad damage. Gritted payments are best avoided, so if you do see your dog begin to limp then paws may be contaminated with salt grit, which causes pain and discomfort.  Dogs and cats will lick their paws too which can also make them ill.

Pets which are kept outdoors, although have insulated fur, can be affected by the cold weather and it is vital that owners are aware of this. Any pet can be affected which spends time outdoors, particularly at nights or for long periods of day length. These may include:

  • Kennel dogs
  • Rabbits
  • Guinea Pigs
  • Horses
  • Cats
  • Birds in outdoor aviaries

These freezing temperatures can not only cause severe health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia, but can also kill our pets. Temperatures drop more at nights and even if you have a sheltered kennel for a dog, or insulated hutch for rabbit, it is still too cold. Housing keeps them sheltered from wind, rain and extreme sun, however it cannot protect them from the freezing temperatures.

The initial signs of hypothermia in pets include:

  • Weakness
  • Low body temperature
  • Shivering
  • Absence of mental alertness

Signs of moderate hypothermia include:

  • Shallow and slow breathing
  • Low blood pressure
  • Stiff muscles
  • Mentally unresponsive

Signs of severe hypothermia include:

  • Very low heartbeat, or even inaudible
  • Dyspnea, i.e. difficulty breathing
  • Dilated pupils
  • Coma

If you have a pet, or any animal, which shows any of these signs then call a vet straight away. Do not try and warm the animal up quickly as this can be detrimental to the animal.

So, with these risks, it is important to bring your pets in at nights. Outdoor dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs should all be brought into the house at nights. Do not risk leaving them outside in the cold. Of course, larger species like horses cannot be brought into your house; however, they can be placed in a stable which is well insulated and well bedded with appropriate bedding. Even keeping an insulated jacket on them at night can help.

So, bring in your pets inside and to everyone, stay safe and warm.

[29/03/2024 12:00:07]