Fur-reeze warning! Keep pets cozy as temps drop

As South Africans face unpredictable weather patterns, it is important for pet owners to take measures to ensure their furry friends remain safe and comfortable during the next few months.

With dramatic shifts in seasonal behaviour, including unexpected storms and multiple cold fronts, the following preparations can safeguard your pets from harsh weather conditions.

Keep them warm

As you would for yourself, make sure your pet is warm and sheltered. Even though they have fur, sudden cold snaps can be dangerous for pets, especially those accustomed to milder weather. If your pet is more outdoorsy, bring them inside during extreme weather or provide well-insulated housing, equipped with waterproof bedding.

Have an emergency stock. Yes, for your pet

With unpredictable winter weather, prepare for possible road closures and power outages. Road closures and outages mean that you won't be able to go to the shop as often, so maintain at least a two-week supply of pet food, bottled water, medications, and first-aid essentials.

If your pet has special dietary requirements, make sure to have their preferred food on hand.

What's your emergency plan?

Speaking of emergencies, establish a comprehensive plan for various weather-related emergencies. Identify pet-friendly shelters, safe evacuation routes, and appoint someone to care for your pet if you are unable to do so. 

Check their water bowl

It might be cold and wet outside, but that does not mean that dehydration cannot happen. Just like we continue to take in fluids when it's cold, dogs and other animals still need access to fresh, clean water. It is also important to check that the water in your pet's bowls is not frozen. 

Brace for flood risks

Residents in flood-prone areas should keep an emergency pet evacuation kit ready, which includes a leash, crate, food, water, and identification tags.

Does your dog have a medical condition?

Cold weather can often aggravate existing medical conditions in dogs, particularly arthritis.

It’s vital to maintain an exercise regimen with your arthritic dog, but be mindful of the cold and perhaps take him out a little later in the day. Just like people, older dogs are more susceptible to other illnesses during winter weather.

Beware of fire hazards and smoke inhalation

In areas prone to wildfires, like the Western Cape, keep an emergency bag stocked with food, water, and your pet’s identification. An air purifier can help improve indoor air quality, as pets are particularly sensitive to smoke and air pollutants.

Watch out for heaters

Our fur babies are not that much different to us after all, except they cannot drink hot chocolate or coffee when it gets extra chilly. However, they will often seek heat during cold winter weather by snuggling too close to heating sources.

Fireplaces can pose a major threat, so please make sure you have a pet-proof system to keep your heat-seeking pet out of harm’s way.

It's worth noting that pets can develop hypothermia and respiratory problems if exposed to extreme cold for extended periods.

IOL NEWS