Animal Anti-Cruelty League urges residents to prioritise the warmth of their pets

THE Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) has urged residents to prioritise the warmth of their pets as the intense cold front in Gauteng is expected to last the whole week.

Although our companions are equipped with a warm fur coat and tough paw pads they’re still vulnerable when the cold weather chill sets in and if it’s too cold for you, it’s also too cold for your pets.

Among several things that one can do to keep their pets warm is to bring your pets inside if possible.

They recommend that if your pet cannot be brought inside make sure they always have somewhere warm and dry to go. Move their shelter out of the wind and place extra blankets inside.

All small pets, like hamsters, mice and birds should be kept out of drafts and have extra bedding in their cage and must be covered at night.

Residents should also keep a close eye on pets when they spend time outside in the very cold weather. Cats and small dogs often shelter under cars in the cold and windy weather hence residents should always check before they start their cars and drive away.

It is also dangerous to use electric blankets, heat lamps and other electrical gadgets in the pets’ shelter.

People are aware of the dangers of leaving a pet in a hot car – the same applies to a cold car.

Always make sure that your pets have fresh food and water daily. Check that water and food has not frozen overnight.

For more information on how to look after your pet during the winter please contact AACL Johannesburg on 011 435 0672.

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