Although the evenings are getting a little lighter we are still in the depths of winter with below zero temperatures and reduced daylight hours.  This article is designed to give you some practical tips that will help you to look after your pet during the last few months of winter.

1. Exercise in winter

The short days with dark mornings and evenings may make exercising your dog a little harder and he may not receive the same amount of exercise that he would during the summer months.

It’s important to keep an eye on his weight and food intake as reduced exercise may lead to weight increase.  Make it a routine to check his weight and cut down on total food intake if it seems to be on the increase.

Older dogs, just like humans can also suffer from stiff joints as a result of arthritic changes and these aches and pains can be worsened by cold, damp weather.  There are a wide range of anti-inflammatory medications available from your vet which may help and also joint supplements such as glucosamine can be useful.

When walking your dog in the dark, a fluorescent jacket or collar can help your dog be seen more easily by traffic.  You can also buy flashing lights which attach to the collar.  A microchip is also a great idea (with up to date contact details) as should your pet be lost, it will help a speedy reunion.  Microchips will become compulsory for all dogs in England and Wales from April 2016 onwards.

2. Ice hazards

A wintry scene is very pretty but walking your dog in ice and snow can cause some problems.  Ice and snow can ball-up between the pads of the feet causing sores and lameness.  Always check your dog’s feet on return home and give the areas between the pads a good wipe with a cloth and warm water to remove any ice, snow, grit, salt or dirt.

Frozen lakes and ponds are also a real hazard as the ice can be thin and unable to support the weight of your dog.  There are deaths each year as well-meaning owners try to rescue their beloved pet.  It’s a good idea to put your dog on a lead when near these areas.

3. Feeling the cold

Most dogs are well equipped to deal with any temperatures that the UK can throw at them.  But some dogs with thin coats such as Chihuahuas and Greyhounds may well feel the cold just like us humans and would benefit from a coat when out walking in winter.

4. Beware poisons!

The winter months can expose your dog to some recognised poisons, one of which is antifreeze (ethylene glycol).  This sweet tasting substance can leak from car radiators and it is very palatable to most dogs.  Only a small amount can cause kidney damage which can be fatal.  If you suspect that your dog may have consumed antifreeze then contact your vet without delay.

Also some houseplants left over from Christmas such as the Poinsettia have leaves which contain an irritant sap.  These brightly coloured plants may prove interesting to dogs and although not likely to be fatal can lead to an unpleasant reaction if eaten.  To be on the safe side keep these away from your pet.

By David Babington BVetMed MRCVS

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Rock salt is very commonly used during winter all over the UK. The substance is a mixture of salt, grit and other components such as magnesium that works as an ice melter. It is often spread on our roads to keep them clear of ice and snow, and on sidewalks and footpaths to prevent slips and falls.

Despite being so common during the cold season many pet owners are not aware that rock salt can be very dangerous for pets (such as cats and dogs) if ingested. We still don’t know for sure how much needs to be eaten to cause damage but we do know that even a small amount of pure salt can lead to disease.

Most cases of affected animals happen after pets go outside for their walks and step over gritted snow or ice. Rock salt causes some level of irritation to their skin and pets will often lick the substance off their paws and fur. Ingesting rock salt can lead to a high blood sodium concentration which can cause lethargy, thirst, excessive salivation, vomiting and ultimately can lead to kidney damage, pancreatitis and seizures (fits).

If you notice any of these symptoms on your pet, contact your vet immediately. Waiting and watching is never a good idea if you suspect a pet has been poisoned as it can seriously decrease its chances of recovery.

The best way to keep pets safe is to wipe their feet and fur that may have been in contact with the gritted snow. If your pet displays any signs of discomfort after a possible contact with rock salt during one of his walks, wash the affected areas with pet-safe shampoo and warm water. Please don’t forget to dry your pet’s fur with a soft towel after washing.

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Antifreeze is very common in our homes during the winter months whether it is being used to prevent water from freezing inside our household pipes or to de-ice our cars in the morning. This substance is also present in most motor vehicle antifreezes and it is also found in some screen washers.

The problem with antifreeze is one of its components, a substance called ethylene glycol. This substance is extremely toxic for pets, particularly cats, and even if ingested in small amounts it can rapidly lead to kidney failure and death.

Antifreeze poisoning is one of the most common types of poisoning in small animals and statistics show that 90% of cats that swallow antifreeze will die.

Usually cats will come across antifreeze when it leaks from car engines into the ground. Cats that spend a significant amount of time outdoors will often hide under cars and sometimes they might even crawl into the car’s engine in search of warmth and shelter. A few drops of antifreeze will quickly form a small puddle which is usually the only liquid around that is not frozen. Cats, dogs and even wild animals might find it and drink it.

Symptoms of ethylene glycol poisoning can appear up to 12 hours after ingestion. Pets will often display difficulties walking, appearing wobbly, almost like if they were drunk and many will become more vocal. As time goes by the symptoms can evolve to depression, lethargy, increased thirst and urination, vomiting and seizures (fits). After 24 hours it is very likely for your pet to be suffering from acute renal failure and their chances for recovery are very poor.

If you recognise any of these symptoms or if you suspect your pet may have ingested antifreeze please do not hesitate and contact your vet immediately. Your pet’s chances of recovering depend on how soon he or she receives treatment!

We recommend all owners to be very careful when using and disposing of used antifreeze. Please make sure you always keep it away from your pets and immediately clean any spills that may happen by accident.
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