In the same way that dogs can die trapped in sweltering hot cars, freezing cold temperatures can prove fatal.
Brits have been urged to stay vigilant as new weather warnings for snow and ice have been issued across the country. The Met Office has told members of the public to stay safe during the harsh conditions with a snowy blanket expected to drape itself across several massive regions, stretching from Scotland to Portsmouth.
Affected areas are expected to see between 5cm and 10cm of snow overall, and motorists have been warned to be extra cautious on the roads. However, it’s not just humans who need protection – our beloved pets need to be kept safe, too. An expert has warned that dogs should never be left unattended in freezing-cold cars.
Man finds genius way to defrost his car in seconds but everyone has same warning
It is so important that our beloved pets aren’t forgotten about in the winter (stock photo)
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Getty Images/fStop)
Canine behaviourist Rebeckah Vaughan told The Mirror: “We all know dogs die in hot cars, but the message that dogs die in cold cars is lost. Any extreme temperature is dangerous for dogs and they will develop hypothermia if left in a freezing cold car. It is as dangerous as leaving your pet out in the snow or taking your pooch on a long walk outdoors. It’s really important that dogs aren’t forgotten about in this weather. A dog could die being left in a car in arctic conditions.”
Signs of hypothermia in dogs include increased heart rate followed by a slower heart rate and rapid breathing, sluggishness, delayed reflexes, paleness and dilated pupils. Canines may fall in and out of consciousness, and in extreme cases, experience damage to the heart, kidneys and blood vessels.
“Don’t leave dogs unattended in cars. Temperatures can drop extremely quickly and your dog could develop hypothermia,” Rebeckah advised. “Make your dog a cosy space at home away from draughts. Your dog needs a safe space they can go to get warm.”
The animal behaviourist advises staying out of the cold if you have a short-haired dog and the temperature is below -1C outside. Temperatures lower than -12C can be incredibly dangerous, and longer walks should be avoided to prevent your dog from developing hypothermia.
There are a number of other hazards to pups in the cold weather, including rock salt which contains harmful chemicals to canines. “Make sure you are rinsing their paws in warm – not hot – water when you return from a walk,” Rebeckah said. “Even if they’ve avoided grit, make sure you dry the snow from in between their paws. Snow can compact in the fur in the paw pads and can turn into ice balls which can be very painful.”
Owners should also keep antifreeze away from pooches, as it can damage their kidneys and cause death, even after only a small amount has been licked. “Don’t go near frozen lakes, if your walking route is near a pond or lake make sure you keep your dog on a tight leash well away from the water,” Rebeckah said.
A flashing light on a collar or a fluorescent harness can help your dog remain visible in the snow, fog and dark, rainy mornings. “Don’t allow your dog off-lead as bad bad weather conditions can cause serious road traffic accidents. Keep your pooch close at all times,” Rebeckah added.