With January in full swing, temperatures are beginning to fall in parts of the UK.
It is not just us humans that can suffer in the cold; our pets can too, and it’s important to be aware of the warning signs.
A vet from The Pet Health Club, a nationwide preventative healthcare plan for a variety of pets, took to TikTok to offer some tips for both looking out for and preventing hypothermia in dogs and cats.
He first outlined the four warning signs of hypothermia – shivering, pale gums, confusion and loss of consciousness.
If noticing these alarming symptoms, its vital to take the following steps to ensure that your pet warms up quickly.
Firstly, the vet urges owners to dry off their dogs if they are damp. Wet pets, especially in these colder months, can be a recipe for hypothermia.
Next, use blankets to make sure they regain some body heat. These blankets can be placed on, over and underneath your pet, in order to make sure all parts of them receive ample amounts of warmth.
Another important thing to do is to give them some lukewarm water, as this allows them to warm up from the inside.
It is vital that you warm your pet up slowly, and this can be achieved through placing them in front of a radiator (but not too close!) You can also turn on the heating if you’re in the car.
One thing the vet says not to do is to use hot water bottles. This is because they can be extremely hot when first filled up, which could burn your pet.
After these steps are completed, call your vet for further advice.
The RSCPA offers plenty more useful advice for keeping pets safe in winter.
It advises: « Just like humans, animals need a little extra care during the cold and dark winter months…
« Keeping pets dry and warm in winter is crucial for their well-being. Cold, wet conditions can cause pets to become chilled, making them more vulnerable to illnesses like frostbite, hypothermia, or respiratory infections.
« Pets with short coats or those not accustomed to the cold are especially at risk. By ensuring they stay dry and warm with proper shelter, clothing, or indoor warmth, we help protect them from these dangers and ensure they stay healthy, comfortable, and happy during the colder months. »
