2012 - Keep Them Safe. Keep Them Warm.

With temperatures expecting to drop to -10°C over the next few days, outdoor pets are going to be extremely vulnerable.

Please consider relocating them indoors or into a shed, garage or outbuilding.

Hutches should be kept off the ground to avoid freezing conditions. You can even buy winter covers for hutches. Providing extra bedding material will also help insulate from the cold and regularly check water bottles as frozen water will leave your little pet dangerously dehydrated.

If your have a garden pond, check it every day for a layer of ice. Toxic gases can build up in the water and if not able to evaporate, they will kill fish and wildlife hibernating in the bottom.
Do not use antifreeze in fish or ornamental ponds as this is extremely toxic to pets and wildlife.

If your pond does freeze during the cold spells, do not smash the ice. Place a pan of hot water on the surface and gradually melt the ice. Remember to stay away from frozen ponds and keep dogs safely on leads.

Don’t forget the wildlife – Birds require high energy (high fat) foods during the cold winter weather to maintain their fat reserves and survive the frosty nights. Use only good quality food and scraps. Adjust the quantity given to the demand, and never allow uneaten foods to accumulate around the feeders.

Once you establish a feeding routine, you should try not to change it as the birds will become used to it and time their visits to your garden accordingly.

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