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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Lifestyle
Laura Hampson,Lowenna Waters and William Mata

How to keep your dogs and cats warm this week

The Arctic blast that has brought -6C temperatures to the UK looks set to continue with a yellow warning for snow and ice in place for parts of England.

While the icy sights have produced some stunning views it can make life tricky for people, and also their dogs.

The RSCPA has already given some advice for owners as to what temperature is considered too cold for a dog walk.

But the agency has given some additional advice as to how to look after your pet in freezing conditions.

Keep them inside

Keep your pets inside as much as possible, the RSPCA has said. If they are left outside, they can get cold or wet which could make them sick.

Wrap them up

If you have a short-haired dog, dress them in a cosy long sweater for walks. The RSPCA recommends dressing both your pup and yourself in reflective clothing to make sure you’re visible if going for a night-time walk.

Keep your pets hydrated

Staying warm will use up a lot of your pet’s energy, so make sure they have plenty of fresh water. Pets should also be given more food during the winter months, so make sure they are eating enough.

Don’t let them run over frozen lakes

The RSPCA recommends keeping your dog away from frozen lakes that crack and break under the weight. It’s also good to ensure their paws don’t get impacted by the snow.

Provide extra bedding

If you have an outdoor pet, like a rabbit, provide them with extra bedding for warmth and, if possible, move them to a shed or unused garage for shelter.

Pop a hot water bottle under their bed if you have a chilly house

By placing it under their bedding, this will keep them warm overnight - but make sure there are no leaks that could scald your pet.

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