Last night was the coldest night of the year so far in the UK, as temperatures dropped to -15.2C in the Scottish Highlands. Several weather alerts have been sparked across the nation and dog walkers are being warned to stay safe.
Canine behaviourist Rebeckah Vaughan is urging pet owners to keep an eye on their dogs in the snow and ice and watch out for signs of hypothermia, as Arctic winds bring a sharp change in conditions.
Rebeckah told the Mirror: "Hypothermia is extremely common in dogs when temperatures are below -1C, and fine-coated canines like whippets and Staffordshire bull terriers are more susceptible.
"The most common sign of hypothermia is shallow, panicky breathing and bodily shaking. This can be associated with nerves or kennel cough, so it's important to listen to their heart rate.
"If your dog's heart rate is slowing down and their reflexes are delayed, their body is going into shock.
"If you suspect your dog is suffering from hypothermia, you should take them somewhere warm and contact your vet immediately."
Signs of hypothermia in dogs include increased heart rate followed by a slower heart rate and rapid breathing, sluggishness, delayed reflexes, paleness and dilated pupils.
Canines may fall in and out of consciousness, and in extreme cases, experience damage to the heart, kidneys and blood vessels, and even death.
"Don't leave dogs unattended in cars. Temperatures can drop extremely quickly and your dog could develop hypothermia," Rebeckah advised.
"Make your dog a cosy space at home away from draughts. Your dog needs a safe space they can go to get warm."
The animal behaviourist advises staying out of the cold if you have a short-haired dog and the temperature is below -1C outside.
Temperatures lower than -12C can be incredibly dangerous and longer walks should be avoided, to prevent your dog from developing hypothermia.
There are a number of other hazards to pups in the cold weather, including rock salt which contains harmful chemicals to canines.
"Make sure you are rinsing their paws in warm - not hot - water when you return from a walk," Rebeckah said.
"Even if they've avoided grit, make sure you dry the snow from in between their paws. Snow can compact in the fur in the paw pads and can turn into ice balls which can be very painful."
Owners should also keep antifreeze away from pooches, as it can damage their kidneys and cause death, even after only a small amount has been licked.
"Don't go near frozen lakes, if your walking route is near a pond or lake make sure you keep your dog on a tight leash well away from the water," Rebeckah said.
A flashing light on their collar of fluorescent harness can help your dog remain visible in the snow, fog and dark, rainy mornings.
"Don't allow your dog off-lead as bad bad weather conditions can cause serious road traffic accidents. Keep your pooch close at all times," Rebeckah added.
Do you have advice for walking dogs in the snow? Email nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
