Anyone who has seen a dog running through snow or licking frost will appreciate they like nothing more than a chilly day (or perhaps biscuits). Hot days make our pets sluggish, but chilly days perk them up; even oldies like to get in on the action.
Keep Warm!
Running will make a dog hot, but as they cool down the chilly wind can make them shiver; try a dog coat to keep the cold out. Avoid rivers too, because they can be sub-zero and your wet dog will become gradually colder as the walk progresses. Iced over rivers are dangerous, never let your dog onto the ice, it may break and your dog can be swept underneath.
Be Careful Out There!
Whilst we’re talking about dangers – make sure anti-freeze is locked away and spray it sparingly. It’s poisonous, and kills pets within hours if they ingest it. Anti-freeze tastes sweet, which is a big attraction for animals.
Salt and grit on icy roads and pavements can cut foot-pads and get stuck between toes, so wipe your dog’s feet after a walk to prevent sore cuts. Stop them licking at the salt on their feet too, as it creates excessive thirst.
Dark mornings and early nights are a perennial winter feature. Invest in good quality high visibility coat so you’re safely seen. Hi-vis dog coats are a good investment and you can also buy a hi-vis collar with lead! Don’t forget your torch on winter walks. Even a mini torch that fits in your pocket is better than nothing if you get caught out.
Wrap Up Hutches
Pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs need extra warmth. Make sure their bedding is dry, and wrap towels or an old duvet over the hutch. Remove ice from bowls daily, and ensure any hanging drinkers are not frozen solid.
Frozen Fish
You can’t knit a bobble hat for your fish during cold spells, but you can keep the pond clear of leaves, as they raise ammonia levels. To prevent pond ice place a ball in the water. Fish slow down during winter, but feed them if they are active. Logs at the bottom of the pond can provide warm spots for them, or you can buy a surface heater if you like to see them swimming year round.
Native Wildlife Needs You
Birds appreciate peanuts or fat balls when it’s cold, and hedgehog food is available as well. Don’t brush up those leaf piles, because they provide shelter for hibernating insects, toads, bees and butterflies. You can put up an insect or bird box now too, so it will be weathered and smelling natural by spring time.
Wrap up, and enjoy that fresh air!