Snuggling up for Winter
While winter in Australia can often be milder than in other parts of the world, snowfall and low temperatures are still on their way. While you rug up for the colder weather, how are your cats and dogs keeping warm? Remember, staying warm is equally as crucial for them as it is for you.
Your pets rely on you to provide them with the necessities of life. Food, shelter, and warmth are all vital, and they become all the more critical when the rain and snow start to fall. You can put on a jacket or cuddle up in a blanket, but your dog or cat only has a fur coat that will provide minimal protection against the elements. Therefore, you need to step in and see that they’re sheltered from the weather.
For dogs, there are several things you can be doing to ensure they don’t feel the cold this winter. Firstly, allow them to spend as much time indoors as possible. While they may share ancestry with wolves, the domestic dog’s ears, paws, and nose are particularly vulnerable to cold conditions, and they aren’t able to cope outside for long periods of time in low temperatures.
If your dog is an outside dog, ensure they have enough shelter from the elements. An insulated dog kennel with a well-sealed roof, plenty of blankets and positioned away from the wind and rain can make all the difference.
If you have a small or old dog, purchasing a coat for them to wear during walks, or on short stints outside, can be beneficial as well. Smaller dogs with less fur and older, more fragile dogs could all benefit from an additional layer protecting their bodies.
Additional comfort is also helpful at bedtime. Provide your dog with an elevated bed to prevent being exposed to a draught, as well as plenty of warm blankets so they can sleep comfortably throughout the night.
Cats are less reliant on you as a species, but they too can feel the cold. You might find that your ordinarily active cat is happy to spend more time inside closer to the fire or heater, and is less thrilled at the prospect of heading outside. If this is the case, it couldbe a good idea to purchase a litter tray to avoid accidents.
However, if your cat still does like to venture outside, it may still try to seek out the warmth. Provide a warm, sheltered spot outdoors so that it won’t find comfort in dangerous areas, such as under vehicles.
The wind, rain, and lower temperatures are on their way, so there’s no time like the present to get prepared. While you’re busy ensuring your family will be warm enough for the next few months, remember to spare a thought for your pets as well. Consult us if you require any advice or tips on how to care for your pets over winter.
