Diane Wooldridge, chairperson of the Benoni SPCA, said that it is preferred that dogs sleep inside at night in winter, not only as protection from the cold but also from poisoning.
She advised that the animals should not be put in the kitchen nor bathroom overnight as these rooms are usually on the south side of the house and are tiled, making them the coldest rooms during the early hours of the morning.
“A study or a carpeted passage would be best, as the bed can be removed during the day. If, however, you cannot have your pet inside, they must have a kennel or some kind of structure where they are protected from the elements, with warm blankets and a pillow.
“Be sure to wash the blankets at least weekly and place a thick material or a piece of heavy-duty plastic over the door, attaching it at the top but leaving the sides and bottom free to act like a doggy door. This will help a bit in keeping the cold out,” she said.
Wooldridge added that short-haired dogs can wear a dog coat during the evenings and nights but they should be removed during the day so that their coats and skin can breathe.
“Ensure that the coat fits a bit loosely and there are no constrictions around the neck or stomach.”
The organisation is appealing to residents to donate blankets to the Benoni SPCA to ensure that all the animals are kept warm this winter.
For more information or to make arrangements, contact the Benoni SPCA on 011 894 2814.
