RSPCA calls on Norfolk pet owners to keep animals safe as temperatures drop
With temperatures set to drop and snow and ice forecast in many areas this weekend, the RSPCA has issued its top tips to keep pets, livestock and wildlife safe amid the big freeze.
The Met Office has issued yellow warnings of ice and RSPCA pet welfare specialist Dr Sam Gaines has said: “It’s really important we help our animal friends during this latest upcoming spell of cold weather. As we all strive to create a better world for every animal, people can share our helpful advice and tips to make sure their own animals, and local wildlife, are kept safe.”
Top tips include: * Keep a close eye on outdoor pets like rabbits and guinea pigs; if the temperature drops below freezing, move them indoors. The RSPCA recommends guinea pigs are housed indoors when temperatures are below 15°C (59°F). If you do bring your pets indoors, they still need plenty of time to exercise. If you have to leave them outside, provide them with lots of extra bedding and make sure their home is protected from adverse weather with insulating but ventilating covers. Hutches should be in a sheltered position, with a sloped roof and should be raised off the ground at least 4in (10cm).
* Ensure cats have constant access to the house or to a warm, indoor area such as an outbuilding or barn.
* Antifreeze and rock salt - commonly used at this time of year - can be poisonous to pets so keep any stored products out of reach.
* If you have a pet who gets wet or cold, rub them dry with a towel and make sure they have plenty of warm bedding.
* Keep dogs warm while out on walks with a special coat or jumper.
* When walking your dog in the dark or riding your horse, wear reflective clothing and think about reflective protection for your pet too.
* Keep your dog away from frozen ponds, lakes or rivers and make sure their paws don’t get impacted with snow.
* If you have a fish pond, check it to make sure the surface is not entirely frozen as poisonous gases can build up under the ice. Don’t break the ice as this can harm the fish, but carefully place a saucepan of hot water on the surface to gently melt a hole in the ice. Never tip boiling water straight onto the pond as this can also harm or kill fish. And never try to use antifreeze or salt to thaw frozen ponds or birdbaths.
* Horses and livestock need extra care in the winter, such as adequate shelter, extra feed as grass can be sparse and regular checks on water troughs to keep them clear of ice. Give added protection with a waterproof rug, ensure they have access to dry standing areas, and check hooves regularly. Farmers and smallholders should give extra consideration to young animals and whether they need extra protection from the cold weather.
* Wildlife may need an extra helping hand during tough, winter conditions. Birds can struggle to find food so leave seeds and grains such as oats and sunflower seeds; cooked pasta or rice; boiled potatoes, cheese, or uncooked unsalted bacon rind; raisins and sultanas; net-free fat or suet balls; apples, pears and soft fruits.
* Keep bird baths free of ice, leave out bowls of clean water, and keep feeders clean.
The RSPCA doesn’t advise keeping dogs outside in any weather. Meeting the needs of dogs when they’re kept outside is very hard - and more so in very low temperatures. Owners should make sure their dogs have a clean, comfortable and dry sleeping area with a safe heat source.
