5 ways to keep your pet safe in the snow

Believe it or not some animals like humans just don’t like the snow, personally so long as I don’t have to drive I love it.

Keep them warm

Excuse me for stating the obvious but the cold can kill. There was recently a case of a dog that sadly succumbed to the cold in Ireland after being left outside. If you have animals that live outside make sure they have extra bedding and consider bringing them inside if you can. We are not suggesting you should have your pet chicken flapping around the house but consider their needs as soon as a cold weather snap is predicted. Dog’s may need extra consideration, puppies and arthritic or older dogs will definitely appreciate a coat to keep the chill off them. If they get too cold outside you may wish to soak their food in some warm water to make a sort of soup to help them warm up.
If your pet is curled up or shivering it can be a sign they are very cold. Check their ears and if they are cold to the touch you may need help. If they cannot stop shivering it is a sign you must act on. Animals can suffer from hypothermia and without quick action your pet may become a victim. Wrap them up, use a hot water bottle to warm them safely and rush them to the vet as a matter of emergency.

There may not be many cars on the roads but please don’t let your dog run where they like. Fresh snow covering road markings can sometimes make an environment seem safe. When walking near places with water such as lakes or rivers keep your dog ON LEAD at all times. He may not realise that the ice before him could crack and with all those tasty water bird smells may investigate a little too closely.
With snow comes grit and salt and with that also comes danger. Wipe your pets feet after each walk and make sure he or she does not lick them before you do. There are some nasty chemicals in the grit councils put on the roads you you do not want your pet ingesting them.
Dogs walking on icy ground excessively can cause their pads to become sore or even blister, consider boots or use paw wax.
Take care yourself. There is nothing like being on the end of the lead attached to an over excited ball of energy. Believe us we spend almost every day walking them. But in the snow it won’t take much for you to get knocked over or slip and hurt yourself.

When ingested anti freeze can be fatal and unfortunately dogs and cats just love the taste. Unfortunately animals can find the taste pleasing and as little as a tablespoon can cause brain, liver or kidney failure resulting in death. If you think your pet may have ingested anti freeze rush him to the emergency vets as soon as possible.

Feeding the wildlife during winter is lovely. However your dog or cat may think that pile of bird seed or suet block is for them! Foods such as these are high in fat and can often cause diarrhoea, or a fatal bloat if eaten is excess. Feed the wildlife in areas your dog or cat cannot reach and please don’t leave food in parks where other animals may find them or the food may spoil. Mould on left over food can also cause damage to our pets.

Unless your pet does lots of extra exercise there is no reason to over feed him. Keep to his usual diet and don’t be tempted to add extra fatty bits, if it is cold he is unlikely to use much extra energy as he will sleep more. Don’t forget to encourage him to keep hydrated also!

If you are unsure what to do with your pet during excessive cold temperatures do not hesitate to call your vet for advice.