Winter Pet Care, Geelong
June 23, 2016It’s time to keep them warm and cozy…..
…………… because if you’re cold so are your pets!
Frosty mornings and chilly evenings have arrived letting us know that its winter time again. As we push the t-shirts to the back of the cupboard and dig out our scarves, it’s also time to make sure ALL of our pets are warm and cozy too.
1. Keep them inside
If possible, you need to allow your pets more time inside during the winter months. Even pets with long dense coats need a break from the weather.
* Kennels that are too large for your dog won’t hold heat as well
* Outside water bowls need to be checked each morning to make sure they aren’t iced over.
2. It’s not just about cats & dogs….
Pocket pets _(rabbits, guinea pigs, rats & mice)_ and birds need draft free areas in their enclosures with plenty of DRY bedding to survive winter weather.
* Consider bringing them inside overnight in small temporary cages.
* Provide small snug igloos for them to cozy up in.
* Increase feed amounts as they will use more energy trying to keep warm.
* Place extra logs or nesting boxes in aviaries for your birds to shelter in
3. They need to be dry to be warm
If you use coats and jackets on your pets, always make sure they stay dry and change them before they become damp.
Wet clothing can make pets colder.
Matted fur will also allow the cold air to reach the skin more easily. You can dry and warm up a pet with a short tidy coat far quicker than a long shaggy one.
Our groomers are more than happy to help you out with a winter trim for your pet.
4. Cats love warm cars
Cats are very attracted to the warmth of cars during winter. Take a moment to tap on the bonnet of your car to alert any sleeping animals that may get hurt when the car starts.
5. Get a check up
Cold weather can exacerbate health issues, so getting a check up during winter can be very important.
Juvenile, elderly and pocket pets are the most vulnerable to cold weather.
6. Keep your pet’s microchip details up to date
The winter rain and cold can interfere with your pet’s ability to find their way home. Make sure their microchip details are up to date and that their collar has a council tag and ID tag that is easy to read, so that they can be returned to you.
7. Plan for emergencies
Winter can bring unexpected emergencies such as storms and power outages.
Make sure your family emergency plans include care for your pets.
8. Prevention is ALWAYS better than cure!
Unfortunately, fleas and worms don’t hibernate during winter. In fact, there is usually more flea activity in our homes during winter than summer. Fleas love it when we turn the heaters on and start hopping around in joy.
Keep up your flea and worm prevention continuously during winter:
* Treat all your pets monthly for fleas & heartworm
* Treat all your pets quarterly for intestinal worms