Yes, bad weather can be good for us in small doses– but on the whole, it’s best to stay well protected during winter time. This is just as true for our furry friends as it is for us. And to that end, we’ll be sharing five ways you can keep your animals healthy and safe during winter.
- Keep them active
On the one hand, you need to limit how much time your animal is spending outside. Yet on the other, you need to keep them active to maintain their health. During winter, it can seem difficult to strike a balance between these two requirements.
That’s why it’s a good idea to invest in a selection of animal toys to help keep them busy. This is an easy way for them to do some exercise without having to go outside.
- Clean their paws
It’s vital you stay mindful of where your animals are walking. Avoid letting them walk through any area that has a lot of salt, grit, or snow. These can become packed in between their toes, becoming painful or causing irritation if left unchecked.
If you really want to ensure your animal’s comfort, invest in a balm for their footpads.
- Feed them properly
You need to keep an eye on how much food your animal is consuming during winter.
Some dogs may become less active due to the cold. If this is the case with your dog, you’ll need to reduce how much food you give them accordingly so that they don’t gain weight.
On the other hand, ensuring that your animal is getting quality nutrition will help them to stay healthy and strong. Invest in some high-quality rabbit feeding hay for small animals if you have one, or high-end dog or cat food according to the pet you have.
- Insulate their shelters
Do everything you can to make your animal’s living and sleeping areas as warm and cosy as possible.
Smaller animals like rabbits and guinea pigs are especially vulnerable to cold weather, as – thanks to their smaller mass – they lose heat more quickly. Ensure that their hutches are in a draft-free area and well-insulated.
If they seem to be suffering from the cold, consider bringing them into the home so that they can keep warm.
- Never leave them in cars unattended
This isn’t only a rule to live by during summer when cars can become dreadfully stuffy and hot. It’s just as true in winter when temperatures can plummet in the blink of an eye. Always take your animal with you instead of abandoning them in the car.
So, there you have it, our top tips on keeping your animal healthy and safe during winter. What advice can you share? Tell us what you’ve learned in the comments section.