by Charlotte Howard

Created on: November 11, 2009

As winter approaches we all start to prepare for the cold weather, but let's not forget our furry friends. Just as we need to keep healthy and warm, they do too. Outdoor or indoor, all pet owners need to make sure that their animals are going to be safe this winter.

Food and Water

Water is essential all year round, but in the winter, particularly with outdoor animals, it does tend to freeze over. Check their water supply at least twice a day, especially in the morning and at night when the temperatures are at their lowest. Don't just break up the ice though, make sure you change the water. Some bacteria can survive in cold temperatures, and letting animals drink from this water can leave them open to getting diseases and becoming host to parasites. To prevent water from freezing you can add a ball to the water - soccer balls for larger sources of water, tennis or golf balls for smaller bowls. The ball will bob about in the water, preventing it from freezing. It also allows animals to have access to water that is frozen as they can push the ball down with their noses or muzzles. This tip is particularly useful for animals that are outdoors such as horses and cattle.

During the winter months animals use more energy to keep their blood circulating and remain warm. With this in mind it is important to provide a high energy feed, especially for large outdoor animals. For animals such as horses, cattle, rabbits and guinea-pigs, increase the hay supply.

Warmth

Probably the most obvious point of winter care is to keep all animals warm. This is absolutely essential for young and older animals, as they are more prone to the cold weather. Make sure that stables and barns have a good supply of a warm bedding, such as straw and are well protected from the elements. But, never keep an animal entirely enclosed. They must have access to a good air supply.

For kennels and outdoor catteries, ensure that dogs and cats have access to a shelter that is protected from wind, rain and snow. Within the shelter provide a warm bed that is off the ground. Standing wicker beds are ideal for this purpose and add some blankets and cushions.

Whilst it is not essential to rug horses up during the winter, for fine coated breeds it is certainly advisable. This can also be said for dogs. Coats and rugs are available from most good pet stores, although an old jumper can work just as well.

Safety

With winter comes ice. The most dangerous form of ice is 'black ice', which is when a layer of ice is formed that cannot be seen. Take care when exercising pets and avoid places that you know are prone to icing over. Horses should be exercised in a school of sand or rubber, and if hacked out smooth surfaces such as roads should be avoided where possible.

When exercising your dog avoid going near water, stick to grassy areas. Pack a bag to take with you containing a towel, biscuits, a water bottle and extra clothes. If your dog does get muddy or wet, make sure that they are thoroughly dried to prevent hypothermia and offer them small sips of water regularly.

Winter can be a fun time of year, but it can also be dangerous. Make sure that your pets are kept safe, warm and healthy, but don't restrict them from having fun!

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