Winter is a time to love….

by Claire, 2 years ago

Just like people, our pets need some extra care during the colder winter season. The Cape of Good Hope SPCA has put together some helpful tips on taking care of your animals during these colder weeks! These cold months are often the times when we are most lazy and our pets feel the brunt of us not wanting to go outside for a walk or run. As a result, our pets suffer with less exercise and more built up energy than they know what to do with. If you take care, it could be the perfect season to enjoy both the in- and outdoors with your best friend.

The following tips should help make winter enjoyable for both you and your pet:

• It is important at this time of year to assess your pet’s condition, age, weight and level of exercise, and make adjustments for the colder weather. Visit your regular vet for advice in this regard.

• Many of us battle the cold at home and use various methods of heating up our homes. If you use indoor heaters, make sure that cables are out of reach for your pets so that they can’t chew them, and make sure your pets don’t get too close to heaters where they could get burned. Close up your fireplaces or block off any fire pits in order to keep your pets protected. A better idea is to refresh your pet’s bed with a new warm blanket for them to snuggle up in.

• Dogs may need slightly more calories in cold weather if they spend time outdoors. Give them a little extra food which generates body heat, and makes up for the energy used up in exercise and to keep warm.

• One of the best ways to keep you both safe when exercising in dim light, is the use of reflective gear and flashlights. Try to maintain some level of exercise for your pets during the colder weather to avoid excess weight gain.

• Snakes tend to be a little bad-tempered when they are preparing for hibernation, thus increasing the possibility of bites, so be careful when walking in areas prone to snakes.

• During the change of season, dogs typically lose their shorter, lighter summer coats to make room for a heavier protective fur for winter. In the spring, this cycle is reversed – the winter coat is shed.

• Heavy shedding of hair can however be a sign of health problems. Skin allergies and parasites as well as poor nutrition or other health problems may trigger shedding. If you are unsure consult your vet.

• The cold weather can lead to increased pain from arthritis caused by inflamed joints. If your pets are having trouble moving, moving slower than usual, whimpering when they move, or just seem generally uncomfortable they may be suffering from seasonal arthritis and you should consult your vet.

• Don’t forget to keep up with your pet’s flea and tick treatments. Many people think that these treatments need only be administered during Summer, but these parasites can breed all year round, so it is important to keep a regular treatment schedule all year through.

• Finally, don’t forget to have fun. Winter is the best time to snuggle up close to the ones you love and this includes your pet.

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA provides shelter to thousands of abandoned or injured animals every year, and in winter, shelter life can be especially tough on the animals. Consider making a donation of blankets, dry dog or cat food to help the animals in the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s care that much more comfortable. To make a donation, or to find out more information about you can help the Society, call the Cape of Good Hope SPCA on 021 700 4140 or visit www.spca-ct.co.za.

You can also help animals by showing your own pets some love – through purchasing a new bed, blanket, toys or food through the two CoGH SPCA Vet Shops, located at the Society’s premises in Grassy Park (Cnr 1^st Avenue & First Road, Grassy Park) and Gabriel Road, Plumstead.

We would like you to know that not only will your donation directly benefit the animals in our area but – through a sharing agreement between all SPCAs nationwide – a portion will be used in other, less fortunate areas to benefit animals over a wider area. We feel sure you will approve of this outreach initiative and wish to thank you most sincerely for supporting our SPCA and the
movement generally.

Bank: Standard
Branch: Constantia
Branch Code: 051001
Acc no: 063 002 167
Acc name: Cape of Good Hope SPCA
Deposit reference: Winter blog FCW

Article tags

animal welfare animals Cape of Good Hope SPCA cape town Pets SPCA winter Winter animal tips

Article categories

Charity Winter Motivation

Share