Pet owners warned of 'serious threat' amid cold weather

Emergency vet service, Vets Now, has seen a rise in cold weather-related cases in its animal hospital and clinics, with frost, fog, snow and high winds affecting pets.

Common issues emergency vets will treat include cats and dogs suffering from frostbite on paws, breathing difficulties from dogs who have short-noses, and pets injuring themselves due to icy and slippery surfaces or injuries on snow-covered hazards, such as rocks.

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Vets Now head of telehealth, Dave Leicester, explains that “Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures pose a serious threat to your pet.”

How to keep your pet safe and warm during wintry weather

Mr Leicester advises ways to help you protect your pet and prevent unwanted illness or injury during the colder weather.

If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet

You should try and keep your pets inside, especially overnight when temperatures drop, otherwise they run the risk of getting frostbite or hypothermia.

“If your pet is showing signs of either of these, contact your vet immediately,” explains Mr Leicester.

However, temperatures indoors can also plummet, so if you’re out, try to make sure temperatures in your home can never fall below a reasonable level (around 20C).

Go on shorter, more frequent walks

It’s also worth considering taking your dog on shorter, more frequent walks in order to protect them from weather-associated health risks, rather than long walks in the cold.

Wash and dry your pet’s feet following walks

Salt and chemicals that are used to grit roads and pavements can irritate your pet’s pads, especially if they have any small cracks or redness between the toes.

Always wipe your pet's paws with a cloth and warm water when they come back inside.

Don’t let your pet fall victim to antifreeze

Antifreeze poisoning is a major hazard during cold weather snaps, especially if it leaks from a car’s radiator or spills on the ground while being sprayed on frozen car windows.

If possible, remove ice from vehicles using an old-fashioned scraper, and keep containers of antifreeze locked away and clean up any spills quickly, “as even small amounts can be deadly,” Mr Leicester adds.

Keep a close eye on your car

Cats who are allowed outside during cold spells may try to cosy up on a warm vehicle engine, so check underneath your car and bang on the bonnet before starting the engine.

Research your pet’s breed

Some pets, such as husky dogs and Persian cats, are more tolerant to colder weather than others.

Do your homework on your pet’s breed, as some dog breeds, including Dobermans, chihuahuas and great Danes, require a little extra protection in the cold.

Short-nosed pets are also more at risk from extreme temperatures due to inherited breathing difficulties.

Short-nosed dogs are also particularly at risk of suffering heat stroke if they exercise vigorously in freezing temperatures and then settle in a warm house.

Consider a jumper or coat

Consider putting a dry sweater on your pet before going outside and always take spares in case they get wet.

Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and is microchipped

Pets are more at risk of becoming lost and disoriented in snowy or blizzard conditions, so ensure your dog or cat’s identification tag and microchip details are up-to-date and relevant.

Avoid icy lakes and ponds

Stay clear of water that has frozen over as there is no guarantee it will support the weight of your pet. “If your dog or cat falls through ice it may be deadly,” says Mr Leicester.

Feed your pets well

Pets who spend long periods outside may require more calories during the winter months in order to generate enough energy to keep them warm. Talk to your vet about your pet’s nutritional needs - but don’t overfeed them.

Watch out for icy steps, roads and pavements

Older pets, particularly those with arthritis or mobility issues, are at risk of slipping and injuring themselves on slippery surfaces, especially on steps or when jumping in or out of vehicles.

Make sure your pet has access to fresh water

Make sure you check your pet’s water bowl regularly and fill it up whenever it’s low. You should also be careful not to let your pet’s water bowl freeze over.

Beware of hazards covered in snow

Some pets may injure themselves by falling into potholes covered in snow or from crashing into rocks and steps that they can’t see, so it’s worth being aware of these hazards.

Be prepared for cold weather

If the weather forecasters predict an extreme cold snap or snow and blizzards, make sure you have a pet emergency plan in place.

“This includes stocking up on food and any prescription medication, knowing who to call in an emergency and how you might travel to the vet in an emergency,” Mr Leicester adds.