Dog owners in England have been warned to keep pets inside from Thursday to Tuesday, January 14. Pet sitting platform TrustedHousesitters has released essential guidelines for winter dog walking safety amid the UK snow snap.
Dog owners are being warned by veterinary surgeon Dr Rebecca MacMillan BVetMed MRCVS to consider staying indoors until Tuesday, with a UKHSA amber alert for cold weather lasting until next week on January 14.
“Most of us take sensible actions over the winter to look after ourselves, but we also need to think about how to keep our pets safe,” said MacMillan. “The chilly weather can be enjoyed safely with our furry companions as long as you take a few simple precautions.”
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The RSPCA warned: “If you have an elderly or sickly dog, buy a special coat or jumper to keep them warm. “Stay safe when walking your dog in the dark. Wear reflective clothing and think about a reflective collar or light for your dog’s collar.
“Keep your dogs away from ponds and lakes that are iced over – thin ice may break under a dog’s weight. If it’s snowing outside, watch out for your dogs’ paws becoming compacted with snow, which is uncomfortable for them. Be aware that antifreeze and rock salt can be poisonous to pets.
“Wash their paws thoroughly after walking your dog in areas that may have been gritted with rock salt.” Dog owners must act immediately if you spot these signs of cold stress, including shaking or shivering (don’t assume this is normal winter behaviour) and walking stiffly or lifting paws off the ground because this could indicate painful ice or salt between paw pads.
Other signs include a hunched posture with tucked tail – a sign your dog is trying to preserve body heat – or even “whining or barking unnecessarily” – because experts say this may mean your dog may be trying to communicate discomfort.