The cold weather during the winter season sees people opting to stay indoors and layered up with more clothes and blankets, especially when the low temperatures are coupled with cold fronts.
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People often look for ways to keep warm but how much thought is put into pets during the ‘freezing’ season?
Have you ever wondered how to care for pets during winter?
Express contacted Kempton Park SPCA to give more clarity on pets and winter.
According to Kira Sparrow, manager at the local society, all pets feel the cold.
“Be it dogs, cats, birds or rabbits. Many owners think that because animals have fur they can tolerate the cold temperatures better than we.
“However, the chilly weather can be hard on them too and they do need that extra protection,” said Sparrow.
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Things to be aware of in these cold winter days and nights:
• Bring your pets indoors. Don’t let them sleep on cold floors and make sure that they have a bed with blankets and comfort.
If your dogs do sleep outdoors, ensure that you have an adequate kennel and that it is waterproof.
Position the kennel so that it is not directly facing the wind and/or rain. Raise the kennel off the floor to prevent dampness, and of course, provide blankets for warmth.
• Don’t keep puppies, kittens or other young animals outside as they have not yet built-up resistance to the cold.
• Do add some extra food to their daily meals, because with the cold weather they tend to expend more energy.
• Do continue to do parasite control with your pets, even in winter. Ticks, fleas, lice and mites are present all year round and these parasites are seeking the warmth of your pet’s fur.
• Don’t dip your dog in the cold weather, rather use a product that can be applied topically or administered orally.
• If your dog has a short coat, invest in a jersey for him/her.
• Do continue to groom your pets, by keeping their coats shiny and clean as it also protects them against the cold.
• Never leave your pets unattended around heaters, radiators, and fireplaces – this can be very hazardous.
• Just like with humans, cold weather will often aggravate existing medical conditions in pets, particularly arthritis.
Make sure you pay special attention to this.
• Environmental enrichment is also important during the winter months; allowing your animals freedom outdoors for periods during the day will stimulate them.
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Sparrow also added that pets at the SPCA also need assistance during this time.
“The number of animals coming into our society daily is astronomical and our food stores are constantly being used up,” said Sparrow.
“We always require food and extra blankets to ensure all the animals in our care are fed and warm.
“We are grateful for all donations and thank you for your continued support without which we could not survive.”
Banking details are FNB Karaglen, account number 62131466965, branch code 252442.
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