WOE IT’S WINTER
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Winter can be an invigorating time of the year. It’s also the time of year when you want to curl up in front of a log fire. However, as with anything there may just be an obstacle that is not so obvious when it comes to sharing your life with a pet at this time of year.
At OSCAR we don’t want to be killjoys and, while we appreciate that your pet will go with the flow, it’s down to you to take heed when it comes to winter. Of course, a good Oscar meal will set them up for each day, protecting them from the cold and keeping them active.
Walkies in the winter is just as important as in the summer, although a touch shorter because it might be pouring with rain - it’s bound to be too cold and the days are much shorter. Bearing in mind that lack of exercise will put on a few pounds the cold, wet and windy weather is a nuisance. Think of the old ones; their joints are not what they were and, as for puppies, this whole new experience could generate a chill. That is not to say that cats, independent as they are, won’t feel the effects.
Animals naturally grow their own winter coat to help them deal with the elements and, of course, a nice frosty morning is a great energiser. A good run will build up a thirst and an inviting dirty puddle or cracked ice offers a luxurious thirst-quenching drink or crunch…
At this point alarm bells should ring!
• What if there is an antifreeze spill in a puddle? Tempting sweet tasting, deadly poison.
• Salt and other chemicals to melt snow and ice will irritate their pads.
• Licking their paws may pass on the irritation to their mouth.
• Make sure you wipe their paws with a damp towel.
• Icy winds and snow eat into their ears and paws – be vigilant.
• Certain dogs really do need an extra coat – an ideal present!
Outdoors is a worry but what about indoors? The key message at this time of the year is Christmas joy. Your excitement will be infectious to your pet and without realising an act of kindness may kill your dog. For example, human grade chocolate is seriously toxic. Did you know that ingestion of grapes, raisins or sultanas could cause renal failure? Beware of fruitcake! You must always check before offering your pet human treats and don’t forget, with temptation in their way, they may just help themselves – keep those turkey bones well out of reach.
While you are devouring Christmas cheer, the party poppers, crackers, gift-wrap, tape, and pine needles are just a few delights that a pet will want to investigate. Therefore, if you are thinking of letting your hair down at this time of year you must make sure that your pets are in their own secure haven so everyone can have a very happy and safe Christmas.