Well, winter is the time of year to snuggle under as many blankets you can find and of course, having movie marathons, right? But please don’t forget about the animals, as they do feel the cold too. If you can feel a slight chill in the air, they are right next to you thinking “It’s bit chilly mum/dad”. Your fur children may need some extra attention to stay warm, happy and healthy during the Winter months ahead. There are five top subjects to think about during winter times with animals. They include Food, exercise, shelter, health and even winter clothing.
FOOD
Just like us humans, we tend to eat more during the cooler months to stay warm. Animal appetites may increase too, they need more energy to keep their inner temperature regulated when it’s a bit chilly out. If they tend to spend more time outdoors, it’s quite important for to increase food intake. Before changing their diet, always speak to veterinarian specialist on how much to feed them.
EXERCISE
It’s a known fact during winter months us humans tend to slow down more, are you familiar with the term “Coach Potato”. Although this may be tempting, it is still very important to get out and exercise with your animals. For one, animals hate to be cooped up for the season, you could try these tips tricks; playing games to keep the mind active, even some obedience training or new tricks, doggy play dates and some food-dispensing toys will work a treat too.
SHELTER
Throughout the cold season, animals will need to be provided with adequate shelter, which is also protected from rain and windy conditions. Even if they are indoors, they will also need to have elevated warm spaces to sleep away from cold floors and wind drafts. Don’t forget about the pocket pets, don’t assume they will all huddle together to stay warm like penguins, you will need to provide extra bedding (extra saw dust, beanie’s, blankets etc).
If your house has the luxuries of warmth (fireplaces or heaters) ensure you have any safety screens in place and supervision if necessary, so your fur children don’t burn themselves. However, when we are talking outside measures, it can be simple as a warm kennels that is elevated and safe from winds, rain and hard weather conditions e.g. Snowstorm. Even farm animals need adequate shelter from cold conditions, remember a rug on a horse isn’t a substitute for shelter. Sick, injured or older animals during the winter months should be taken inside when possible.
HEALTH
During the winter season, animals will feel more of the effects of arthritis more than usual. If you know your pet suffers from this unpleasant condition, make sure they stay warm. You can even talk to your veterinarian professional and see what they recommend for arthritis in supplements to help you through the winter periods.
WINTER CLOTHING
Finally, you can get some cute and practical clothing for animals to help them stay warm and cosy. A few things to be addresses; make sure you get comfortable clothing, remember not all animals like to wear clothing and always brush the coat every day, taking the coat off as long-haired animals may get mats. I do like the idea of clothing but just take on board the grooming requirements too, because you may have a tangled mess of dog by the end of the season.
Regards Brooke’s Inspired Pet Services
