Keeping pets active and happy in winter is good for their health – and ours! That’s the seasonal message from leading veterinary charity PDSA.
Could you spot the signs of hypothermia (low body temperature)? In severe cases your pet won’t display telltale signs such as shivering. But it will be disorientated and lethargic with shallow breathing and a slow heart rate. Never leave a pet in the car: just a few minutes can lead to hypothermia.
When temperatures tumble small breeds, puppies and older dogs are most likely to suffer from hypothermia, particularly when wet. And whippets, greyhounds and other dogs with low body fat or thin coats are high risk.
Winter coats are recommended, but remember that salt and grit can damage your dog’s feet, as can ice. Doggy boots will help protect your dog’s feet.
If dogs in particular lie down in the snow, ice or even on a cold patio floor for too long, the result could be weeks of uncomfortable and embarrassing veterinary treatment to your pet’s nether regions.
To help you keep your pets in peak condition, PDSA has winter pet health advice all wrapped up.
Download PDSA Winter check-list for pets for tips on safe dog walking, indoor play and exercise and overcoming the chill factor when Jack Frost calls.
