Don’t let the cold bite: Winter pet safety

The RandWest SPCA offered helpful tips for pet owners to keep their furry friends warm during the cold weather.

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SPCA manager, René van Straten, explained, “Just like humans, animals also feel cold. If you get cold, your animals get cold. Animals can also suffer from hypothermia.

Just like humans, when animals are exposed to extreme cold, their body temperature can drop, organs shut down and hearts stop.

“Animals that are already suffering from things like arthritis, old injuries and old age can be affected by the cold and it could cause uncomfortable pain.”

She continued that to prevent this, animals should be brought into the house if possible. With pets, ensure they have a dry and warm sleeping area, dress them warmly, and prevent them from getting exposed to the cold. For bigger animals, such as farm animals, she advised making sure they are kept under cover during the cold nights and temperature and ensure they aren’t exposed to wind. They also need enough material that can build a fire to sleep on, such as straw and sawdust. One can also make use of indoor heating devices, such as heating pads or infrared lights.

“Just as humans like to eat a little more in the winter, so do animals. It helps keep the body’s metabolism active and ensures there is enough food to fight the cold,” added René.

When taking your pet for a walk, she advised to avoid early mornings and late evenings; she noted to always walk when there is sun. They can also wear coats and as soon as you get back, ensure they have a warm area where they can rest and build up heat.

She also mentioned to be on the lookout for strays in car engines, garages and outbuildings, stray cats tend to climb into car engines for heat. She added that if a person does find a stray animal and doesn’t know who the owner is, bring it to the SPCA.

About their animals’ needs during the cold, René said, “We are so blessed with the support we receive with blankets and we are so grateful. Canned food and treat donations are welcome to give our animals that extra warm love in the cold.”

The SPCA can be contacted on 011 412 3114.