Is your pet ready for Winter?
Hail, wind and lots of rain.. winter has arrived with a freezing cold bang!
There are a few things to ensure you've taken care of to ensure your pet is comfortable through out the colder months.
Grooming - this generally isn't something on the top of people's lists as we assume our pets need all of their coat to keep them warm. Whilst this is true to a point, it is also necessary to ensure our pets are kept comfortable. A long coat takes longer to try after a walk through puddles, wet grass and after being caught in the rain. A long coat that is constantly in the wet,dry, wet, dry routine of being outside for walks and toileting and then inside in the warmth will quickly become matted if not tended too regularly. We recommend a trim at the start of winter followed by regular, thorough brushing to ensure knots don't turn into matting which in turn can create hot spots which will require medical attention.
Arthritis plan - is your pet senior? Are they on a management plan for arthritis or is it something you've been thinking about? Get on top of this before the depths of winter to ensure your pet stays as comfortable as possible. We have a few 'Warm-a-pet' electric blankets in stock which are fantastic for keeping seniors (or particularly sensitive) pets comfortable. They are suitable for use in sheltered outdoor areas and of course indoors. Mumma Puss gives them two paws up!
Parasite Prevention - it is a common misconception that parasite prevention is not as important throughout winter, however studies have shown that continual, year round protection is the best way of preventing an infestation of worms or fleas on your pet and in your home.
Bedding and Shelter - does your pet live outdoors? If so, please make sure they have somewhere warm and dry to shelter from the weather. If you have an senior dog who generally lives outside, it may be worth considering allowing them to sleep in a bathroom or laundry overnight to avoid the lowest temperatures. Cat's in our area must be in doors from dusk until dawn as per council regulations. We recommend cats are kept in doors 100% of their time.
Make some noise - A warm vehicle engine can be an appealing heat source for outdoor and feral cats, but it's deadly. Check underneath your car, bang on the hood, and honk the horn before starting the engine to encourage feline hitchhikers to abandon their roost under the hood.
Stay home - Hot cars are a known threat to pets, but cold cars also pose significant risk to your pet's health. You're already familiar with how a car can rapidly cool down in cold weather; it becomes like a refrigerator, and can rapidly chill your pet. Pets that are young, old, ill, or thin are particularly susceptible to cold environments and should never be left in cold cars. Limit car travel to only that which is necessary, and don't leave your pet unattended in the vehicle.
Play dress-up - If your dog has a short coat or seems bothered by the cold weather, consider a sweater or dog coat. Have several on hand, so you can use a dry sweater or coat each time your dog goes outside. Wet sweaters or coats can actually make your dog colder.
Feed well - Keep your pet at a healthy weight throughout the winter. Some pet owners feel that a little extra weight gives their pet some extra protection from cold, but the health risks associated with that extra weight don't make it worth doing. Watch your pet's body condition and keep them in the healthy range. Outdoor pets will require more calories in the winter to generate enough body heat and energy to keep them warm – talk to us about your pet's nutritional needs during cold weather.
If you would like any more information or have any questions for us, please don't hesitate to contact us on 95682211 or via email on info@oakleighcentralvet.com.au
