Animals feel the cold too, SPCA reminds residents
The SPCA Witbank is urging residents to protect their animals from severe cold weather, warning that puppies, kittens, and senior and short-haired animals are particularly vulnerable.
With severe weather conditions accompanying the current cold front, pet owners and animal lovers are being urged to take extra precautions to protect animals from the cold, rain, and strong winds.
Carika van Rooyen, chairperson of the SPCA Witbank, warned that extremely cold weather can pose a serious and potentially life-threatening risk to animals, particularly vulnerable pets.
She urged residents to bring their pets indoors where possible and provide them with warm, dry bedding.
“Provide raised-from-the-floor warm bedding and blankets away from wet conditions,” she said.
Pet owners should also ensure that animals have access to fresh, unfrozen water and nutritious food. According to Van Rooyen, animals may need additional calories during cold weather to help maintain their body temperature.
Outdoor animals should be checked regularly, with owners ensuring that their bedding is secure, warm, and protected from rain and wind.
Van Rooyen said puppies, kittens, senior animals, and short-haired pets are among those most vulnerable during severe cold conditions.
“Watch for signs of cold – shivering, whining, drooling, and lethargy and act fast,” she warned.
Small- to medium-sized dogs can also be provided with jackets for additional warmth, while cats should have access to a warm and cosy area where they can sleep.
Bird owners have also been urged to take precautions. Birds kept in aviaries should be properly protected from cold air and draughts while still ensuring they have appropriate ventilation.
Van Rooyen further appealed to residents not to leave animals chained outside during the severe weather.
She reminded the public that pets and other animals rely on people for protection when temperatures drop.
“If you are cold, they are too. Take care of them as part of your family,” van Rooyen said.
Read more here:Cold front expected to plunge eMalahleni temperatures below 10°C
The Siyanqoba rape and robbery case returns to the eMalahleni Regional Court today
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