Taking care of your pets with the cold weather coming
Submitted by GSPCA on 14:09, 12th Jan, 2013 |
0
With cold weather coming and potential sleet and snow on the way the GSPCA want pet owners to consider all the animals of Guernsey. During a cold snap the GSPCA are on full alert, ready to deal with a variety of animals affected by the low temperatures.
But you can also do your bit to prevent animals suffering over the cold period.
Do you have a pond?
If you have a pond, make sure you check it every day for ice, as toxic gases can build up in the water of a frozen pond. These can kill fish or frogs that are hibernating at the bottom.
If a pond does freeze over you can carefully place a saucepan of hot water on the surface to melt the ice gently to create a hole. Never directly tip boiling water straight onto the pond or break ice with force, as this may harm or can even kill the fish living there.
If you own a dog then you must keep them well away from ponds and lakes that are iced over. Thin ice may break under a dog's weight. Also watch out for dogs' paws becoming impacted with snow - this can cause them discomfort.
Feeding birds
We have an amazing selection of birds in Guernsey. Don't forget to look after the wildlife in your garden. In winter, birds may have difficulty finding normal food supplies such as berries, insects, seeds, worms and fruit. An extra tit bit from your kitchen will help to keep them going or you can get a variety of bird feed and feeders at the Animal Shelter.
Extra special care for your pets
Your pets really do need extra special care during the cold winter months. Keep a close eye on outdoor pets, such as guinea pigs, rabbits and other animals you may keep outside. Put extra bedding in their home and be prepared to move them into a shed or unused garage for extra shelter whilst the weather is cold.
You need to maintain a regular routine with your dog. You may not feel like taking your dog for a walk on dark wintry evenings, but the exercise will keep your pet happy and healthy and will help to keep you fit as well!
You must remember to always wear reflective clothing to make yourself visible when walking near roads in the dark and a torch is also a good idea. Don't forget your pets too- fit your dog with a reflective collar or coat (we have a selection available at the Animal Shelter).
We advise that horses and ponies that are kept outside during the winter must have access to shelter at all times. They also need a constant supply of fresh water (you must check that ice hasn’t formed on it) and a rug to protect them against the cold and wet. Extra food will be needed too, as winter grazing provides very little nourishment.
We hope this has been some help but any questions please do not hesitate to contact us on 01481 257261
Help us to care for Guernsey’s Animals and Birds this winter.
To find out about the GSPCA Purple Week - Celebrating 140 years Caring for Animals in Guernsey 11th - 17th February and how you can join in.
To see the story of Jethou Bumblebee the grey seal pup please check out this short video from start to finish on how staff rescued him with a lot of help.
Here is a short video of Jethou Bumblebees first time in the pool.
To donate to our BIG FISH APPEAL and help our grey seal pups call the Shelter on 01481 257261 or please click here with the reference 'BIG FISH APPEAL' and thank you for your support
This March please support Clinton who is climbing Kilimanjaro - click here for more
The GSPCA are pleased to announce our GSPCA Sunday Family Fun Lunch on the 3rd March - click here for more details
Other events in 2013 planned are -
25th - 31st March GSPCA Cupcake Week - more details to follow.
4th April - World Stray Day - more details to follow
Saturday 8th June 2013 Itex Walk Guernsey - We are pleased that for 2013 we are one of the nominated charities benefiting from this years walk. To register and find out more click here for more details.
June 2013 - Summer Fayre and Dog Show - more details to follow
September 2013 - Animal Welfare Seafront Sunday - more details to follow
4th October - World Animal Day - more details to follow
There are always animals at the GSPCA looking for good homes from farm birds to rabbits and to see many of them please click here. Felix in the video is our longest stay cat and really needs your help to find a new home.
There are many items on the GSPCA's Wish List and you can see many of them by clicking here including a list of Amazon items which would make a difference to animals in Guernsey.
To download our latest newsletter or become a member of the GSPCA please
Post new comment