The cold weather looks to be here to stay for the coming week at the very least, which means it’s important for everyone to be aware of the potential dangers that come with it.
How freezing conditions may affect our pets is also crucial to consider.
One veterinary expert has shared her top tips for keeping pets safe when the weather turns cold, including the reason you should avoid gritted paths.
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The in-house veterinary surgeon from dog food brand Pooch & Mutt, Dr Linda Simon, hopes her expert advice will help to alleviate any uncertainty.
She said: “Snow can be a very exciting time for dogs, especially those who haven't seen it before.
“However, whilst taking them out for their usual daily exercise can be tempting, there are some essential things to consider to enjoy the chilly temperatures safely."
The first of which is how cold it actually is outside. At the moment, many places are experiencing sub-zero temperatures.
A general rule of thumb to abide by is that if it is too cold for you to go out, it’s likely to be too cold for your pet.
“Popping out in the garden to do their business is fine, but if weather conditions are below freezing, try to walk them once the temperature rises above 0 again,” Dr Simon said.
The next thing to do is to limit your pet’s time out in the snow.
Most healthy dogs will be able to play out in the frosty weather, but, as Dr Simon explained, factors like breed and age will come into play.
She said: “Puppies and smaller breeds have less fat and may struggle to regulate body temperature.
“Older dogs or dogs with pre-existing health conditions are also at higher risk in the winter months.”
Medium to large dogs that are healthy should be able to have about 30 minutes of exercise in the snow without experiencing discomfort. Smaller and short-haired breeds should only be out there for 15-20 minutes.
It’s important to keep your dog on a lead when out on a walk, despite how tempting it might be to let them run wild through the snow.
Unfortunately, snow can be quite disorientating for dogs and could potentially cause them to go missing.
A lead will also prevent any accidents from happening. Dr Simon said: “Keeping them on a leash will reduce the risk of them running onto frozen lakes, falling, slipping or ingesting anything harmful that's been covered in snow.”
While the likes of Huskies and New Foundlands are suited to colder temperatures, other breeds are much more sensitive. If possible, put a coat or protective booties on your dog if you’re heading into the snow.
Reflective or hi-vis jackets will help your pet stay warm as well as safe and seen.
When out and about with your pet, try to avoid roads and pathways that have been covered with grit salt.
This is because the salt can cause irritation and discomfort for the dog if it gets into its paws, especially if it becomes compacted with snow.
“Salt grit contains harmful chemicals and, if ingested, is extremely hazardous and, in some cases, can cause sodium toxicity, so stick to parks and rural locations instead,” Dr Simon said.
Wipe down your pet’s paws as soon as they come in, especially if you think they may have walked on grit. Do this before they attempt to clean it themselves.
Similarly, be sure to dry them off as soon as you get in the door. Inspect their paws, bellies and ears for icy patches that may have formed. Use a towel to dry them thoroughly and make sure their bed or crate is in a warm area to allow them to snuggle up and get comfortable.
Above all else, be sure to keep a close eye on your dog during colder months. Look for their body language and watch for shivering, lethargy and stiffness in their legs. Contact your vet immediately if you spot any of these symptoms.
Dr Simon recommends stimulating your dog mentally with indoor activities. These will not only provide mental enrichment, but they will also strengthen your bond.
“Activities like training sessions, playing, scent work and treat puzzle toys will work their mind and body and help tire them out,” she said.
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