HOW TO KEEP YOUR DOGS AND CATS COSY IN WINTER As temperatures across the country plummet,
Keep them warm and dry
Battersea is offering advice to dog and cat owners to help keep their much-loved pets warm this winter.
We don’t like being wet and muddy, and neither do our pets. Dry off your dog or cat if they are wet or muddy to keep them from becoming ill, and make sure you provide somewhere cosy and warm for them to curl up and rest, especially if they are older. Check their paws During winter, it is especially important to check in between your pet’s toes after they’ve been outside. Any salt and grit on the roads and pavements could get stuck in between paws and cause them to become chapped and irritated. Furthermore, if your pet licks grit off their paw, it could make them very unwell. In the event of snow, check your pet’s paws and dry them thoroughly after they’ve been outside. This is especially important with long-haired animals, as they are prone to snow compacting between their toes and turning into ice balls, which can prove very painful. If they are good with handling, you could trim the long hair between your dog’s toes to help prevent this.
Anna Hemmings, Centre Manager at Battersea Brands Hatch said: “Just like humans, some of our pets will need a little extra care over the colder months to help keep them feeling their best. Elderly dogs and cats, or those with short coats, may especially struggle during this time. “Owners should also be wary of some risks that come with winter – things such as anti-freeze or freezing weather can be very dangerous for dogs and cats, and it’s vital that we stay alert in order to keep our pets as safe as possible.” Wrap up warm Just as it’s important for humans to wrap up warm on winter walks, it’s also important to make sure that our dogs are dressed appropriately for colder weather. Short-coated breeds, such as
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Staffies or Greyhounds, and elderly Playtime dogs would benefit from a warm, Some pets will be content to spend waterproof coat. their usual amount of time outdoors, come rain or shine, but others may If your dog struggles with colder become more inclined to stay indoors weather, consider taking them on a little more when the weather takes a turn for the worst. A good way to a shorter walk than normal.
