Winter Health For Pets

As well as frostbite, cold weather also brings with it the threat of hypothermia (low body temperature) and it's vital that pet owners know the signs of this potentially fatal condition. Hypothermia in pets can take hold in a matter of minutes, and failure to recognise the symptoms can lead to death. Telltale signs include:

• Excess shivering: This can actually disappear if your pet is severely hypothermic.

• Confusion: Your pet may become disorientated and lethargic.

• A slow heart rate.

• Your pet's breathing will become slow.

• Cold paws and ears.

Elaine Pendlebury, PDSA Senior Veterinary Surgeon, says, "If you think your pet is in danger from frostbite or hypothermia, take them into warm, but not hot, surroundings as it can be harmful to warm them up too quickly. If your pet is wet, dry them immediately and call your vet for advice. We can't stress enough the dangers of the cold weather to pets, so don't ignore the signs and don't take any chances.

"I can remember some years ago treating a small whippet that had been lying down on its owner's freezing cold patio floor for some time. The owner didn't realise what had happened to the dog's underside until it was too late. The dog had severe frostbite and it had to have major surgery including skin grafts to repair the frostbitten areas!"

Hypothermia, which can see a pet's temperature plummet to dangerous levels, is more common when a dog is wet, and it is often small breeds, puppies and older dogs that are more likely to suffer. Whippets, greyhounds and other dogs with low body fat or thin coats are also in the high risk category.

Frostbite, which develops through prolonged contact with cold surfaces, can affect a pet's ears, paws, tail, the scrotum and mammary glands. Affected skin will at first appear white and will be itchy and painful. In severe cases the skin will harden and become a deep purple colour with blood filled blisters. Owners should check their pet over regularly as a pet's fur can hide frostbite damage.

Small furries, such as rabbits and hamsters, must also be taken into consideration, as they often require special care during the winter. Their small bodies are more susceptible to changes in temperature, so it's best to bring them inside, or put their hutch in a car-free garage. Hutches and cages should contain warm bedding, and make sure there is lots of ventilation.

You can visit the PDSA website for further information on PDSA's Winter Health for Pets at: www.pdsa.org.uk

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