Animal Care Winter

Animal care is essential during winters as your pet needs protection against the cold. Not all animals can cope in cold climates. How animals tolerate weather conditions often depends on their age, breed or rate of recovery from an injury or illness. Shelter is vital. Whether outside or inside, pets need a cosy area. A covered and secure home is important if they are outside.

As a part of the pet care service, you should check that the home has good waterproofing so that it doesn’t take one rainfall to turn into Noah’s Ark! Elevation from the ground might also prevent this soggy problem.

Clever locations can also prevent your pet freezing its tail off: make sure you find a place that is well out of wind-prone areas for your pet’s home. Insulation can improve your pet’s ability to regulate their body temperature. Adding extra bedding such as sheets, blankets or even newspaper can make a house into a home. Heaters, however, should be kept out of close proximity to your pets as they are dangerous.

If you’ve hired a pet-sitter, make sure the sitter gives your pets an easy access to food and fresh water. Did you know that pets who spend the majority of their time outside might need a top-up? Bulking up in winter is not unheard of, and some pets might need an increase in their daily food rations to add to their calorie count.

A vet can provide the best information to explain how extra food can defend your pet against the cold. Birds are especially vulnerable during winter, and rely on food sources rich in protein and fat to yield them sufficient calories. Check with your pet food supplier for a suitably rich winter meal for your bird or parrot.

Surviving harsh weather conditions is vital for birds: a cosy roosting box or other accessible enclosure will ensure your feather friend will snuggle rather than struggle in winter.