As freezing temperatures spread across the UK, dog owners are being urged to act now to protect their pooches. The RSPCA has shared some tips and advice for keeping pets safe in cold weather.
It comes after a yellow weather warning for snow and ice was in place for the East Midlands overnight, including parts of south Nottinghamshire. Now, a yellow weather warning has been issued for snow in Nottingham from 3am on Thursday March 9 and continues until 6pm on Friday March 10.
RSPCA inspectorate commissioner Dermot Murphy says its important pet owners take steps to help our furry friends through the chilly conditions. He told the ECHO: "We don’t advise keeping dogs outside in any weather.
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"Meeting the needs of dogs when they’re kept outside is very hard, and more so in very low temperatures. We recommend bringing dogs indoors and if not possible ensuring their dog has permanent access to a clean, comfortable and dry sleeping area with a safe heat source so the temperature does not drop below 10C."
While it may be cosy inside, dogs still need regularly walks regardless of the weather. But remember, antifreeze and rock salt are commonly used at this time of year and can be poisonous to pets.
You should wash their paws thoroughly after walking them in areas which may have been gritted with rock salt and also keep any stored products out of their reach. If you think your pet may have ingested something they shouldn’t have, speak to your vet immediately.
Owners should also dry any pets who get wet or cold with a towel and make sure they have plenty of warm bedding. Here are some other RSPCA tips for walking dogs in wintry conditions:
- Some dogs may need a special coat or jumper to keep them warm when you’re out walking e.g. if they are sick or elderly. Make sure your dog can still behave normally in it - for example, go to the toilet easily - and that it is a good and comfortable fit.
- When walking your dog in the dark or low light, wear reflective clothing and think about a reflective collar or light for your pet too.
- Keep your dog away from frozen ponds, lakes or rivers - thin ice may break under their weight.
- Watch out for your dogs' paws becoming compacted with snow, which is uncomfortable for them. Check their paws thoroughly after walks to remove snow or anything else that may be stuck between their toes.
Animal rescue charity Battersea has also shared some tips for caring for your dog in winter. They say that some dogs may be very reluctant to go outdoors in the cold.
If so, you shouldn't force them - but give them lots of toys to play with and make sure to keep them occupied when stuck inside. You might also want to adjust the amount of food you give them to avoid weight gain if they are less active in the winter months.
When going out, you should never leave your dog unattended in your car. Cars can become fatally hot in summer months, but temperatures can also drop very quickly in cold weather, so take them with you when you get out.
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