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WARNING ON BIG CHILL

YOU might be dreaming of a white Christmas... but your pet probably isn’t.

From rabbits to guinea pigs, dogs to horses, most animals need to be kept warm and dry in the cold weather.

Many will need extra bedding and feeding, while others need to be brought inside from the cold.

Dr Samantha Gaines, RSPCA animal welfare expert, said: “Winter is well and truly here and it’s important to remember your pets now the nights have drawn in and days are colder.”

Cats will still explore outdoors and – even if you find it hard to drag yourself out – dogs still need exercise.

Dr Gaines said: “Make sure your cat has constant access to the house or to a warm, inside area and ensure their sleeping area is warm, dry and away from draughts.

“Don’t force your dog to go out if he doesn’t like rain or cold but give them lots of opportunities to go to the toilet, sniff and explore and play.

“Have fun in the snow but stay away from frozen ponds, lakes or rivers OUR vet Brian Faulkner, from Petplan, has 16 years of experience and is a freelance working all over the country. Send your questions to Brian at: Petplan, Great West House, Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex, TW8 9DX or via Petplan’s Facebook page facebook.com/ PetplanUK. which can be very dangerous. Brush packed snow off your dog’s paws and make sure they don’t get grit stuck between their toes – both can be painful – and dry your pet’s coat thoroughly when you get back home.”

Elderly, sick or thin-coated dogs could also benefit from a special dog coat or jumper if it’s really nippy out. Smaller animals also need help. Try to move outdoor pets, such as rabbits and guinea pigs inside, when it is cold. If they stay outside protect them from bad weather with lots of extra bedding to help keep them warm.

Birds need covers on aviaries, coops or runs to keep wind and rain out.

Dr Gaines added.“If you have a fish pond check daily that the surface isn’t entirely frozen as poisonous gases can build up under the ice.

“Make sure horses and livestock have shelter to escape bad weather and use waterproof rugs to protect horses.

“Be prepared to provide extra feed, regularly check water buckets are clear of ice and keep an eye on their hooves if it’s particularly wet and muddy.” MY border collie is 14 and often bites her feet. I’ve noticed she does this more frequently in the winter than the summer. Why?

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