All dog owners in England have been urged to remove two items from their house until Tuesday. The UK snow snap could continue until Tuesday, with the UK Health and Security Agency issuing a warning over the plunging temperatures.
And drivers who have dogs have been warned over leaving de-icer and antifreeze lying around. The PDSA said: “Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is an extremely toxic chemical. Ethylene glycol is also found in car screen wash, brake fluid, radiator fluid and garden water features.
“If it’s swallowed even in small amounts, it can cause permanent damage to your dog’s kidneys. Unfortunately, ethylene glycol is naturally sweet which, is why dogs are often tempted to drink it. They can also ingest it if they walk through a spillage and lick it off their paws.”
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Ahead of the cold snap, Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Mark Sidaway, said: “On Sunday and through Monday south-westerly winds will bring some rain and much milder temperature across the northern UK. With milder temperatures and rain moving in, a rapid thaw of lying snow could cause a few issues. Further south it will remain colder and dry for longer and here freezing fog could cause some problems on Saturday.
“Looking further ahead high pressure will bring more settled conditions to most of the UK through next week, occasional fronts will glance the northwest of Scotland bringing rain at times and breezier conditions, but it will remain mild.” RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “Cold conditions will last until at least the weekend, so we urge drivers to remain vigilant of the risks posed by ice and, in some locations, snow. Black ice on rural roads can be impossible to spot, leaving very little time to react if driving at speed. Sticking to major roads that are most likely to have been gritted is strongly recommended.
“With a huge number of vehicles failing drivers in the cold, our teams are working as fast as they can to rescue our members. In fact, we’re currently seeing our highest levels of demand over a three-day period since December 2022. It’s vital motorists drive prepared for the conditions by packing a warm waterproof jacket, sturdy footwear, a flask of hot drink and a power bank to keep mobile phones charged up.”