Welsh Chief Vet Issues Advice for Pets in the Cold
She is advising pet owners to move hutches or cages should be inside where possible, to a shed or garage, provide extra bedding and also check their animals’ water supplies regularly and make sure they are not frozen.
Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Christianne Glossop also suggests: “If you have fish outside, float a large ball on the pond’s surface so that if the water freezes you can remove it, allowing your fish to get enough oxygen.
Dr Glossop also pointed out that wild birds need extra help with access to food in these weather conditions: “Snow and ice make it difficult for birds to find food and water, so feeding birds with nuts, seeds, or high quality kitchen scraps and making sure they always have access to water could be key to their survival. Putting out nesting boxes can also provide them with some much-needed shelter."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
