Glasgow dog owners have been warned to keep an eye on their furry friends this week with the SSPCA (Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) issuing an important reminder.
The animal welfare charity is asking people with dogs to protect them this week during the yellow weather warning for heavy snow.
Glasgow is set to see around 14cm of snowfall on Friday and 12cm across the weekend and into Monday, according to WXCharts with, the Met Office telling locals to expect "heavy snow" which "has the potential to cause significant disruption" on Thursday (March 9) and Friday (March 10). Temperatures will plummet, with lows of -4C forecast overnight.
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To help keep pets safe as the cold snap takes hold, the SSPCA have issued some advice.
Scottish SPCA chief superintendent, Mike Flynn said that there are "steps that the public can take to keep their pets safe and comfortable during cold weather."
He added: "Wear reflective clothing when walking your dog and stay away from frozen bodies of water where your dog may be at risk of falling through the ice. Avoid throwing balls for animals to chase as they may slip and injure themselves.
“Wash your pet’s paws when they come in from outside as salt on pavements can irritate their paw pads, and they may have accidently trodden in anti-freeze, which is toxic. Make sure to dry your pet thoroughly afterwards.
“If you have an old or elderly dog, or a dog with thin hair, move pet beds away from draughty areas and consider getting them a coat for walks."
When it comes to other pets and small animals, he said: "If you can, bring small animals in from the cold. If you can’t, make sure to give them extra bedding and ensure that their hutches are elevated off the ground. Turn their hutches away from the direction of the wind and rain too. Check water sources for any outdoor animals to make sure they haven’t frozen over.
“Keep cats in overnight and provide a litter tray if they don’t already have one. Check under cars before you drive off, especially in rural areas, as cats often use vehicles for shelter in the colder months.
“If anybody does have any concerns about an animal, please contact our confidential helpline on 03000 999 999.”
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'Heavy snow' warning for Glasgow as yellow Met Office alert issued