There is nothing wrong with it in general but I worry about the person or persons who have to climb onto the raised flowerbed to write on it. Unless they have ten foot arms, did who came up with where to position it think of safety issues? R E Rounce BRIDGE VETS Keeping Your Pets Happy Over Winter Even pets can get the winter blues, so it can help to give them some extra attention and cuddles over the cooler months when everyone’s moods can drop just a little. Here are some other vital tips for keeping your pets happy and cosy over winter. KEEP ACTIVE: We all know how easy it is to go into hibernation mode over winter and avoid exercise, but it is good for you and your dog to keep up with the walks and exercise. It is worth braving the weather and putting on a few extra layers to get outdoors. Keeping your pet moving helps with joint health and mobility and helps prevent arthritic animals from seizing up as much. BEDDING: Some extra blankets and/or padding on your pet’s bed will make a great difference. Also make sure that their bed is away from draughty, cold and damp areas. Raised beds are great for avoiding draughts and cold coming from hard floors. For outdoor animals, make sure their shelter is well insulated and protected from the elements. GROOMING AND RUGGING: Don’t assume that your pet doesn’t need a trim up over winter if they have regular grooming. Coats being left to grow too long in an attempt to keep your cat or dog warm can lead to skin irritations and matting. It is a good idea to perhaps keep their cut a little longer than in other seasons and you can add extra warmth with a rug or coat for your pet. Consider a coat for your dog in cold and wet weather. CAREFUL OF THOSE HOT SPOTS: In the search for the ultimate warm spot your pet might get themselves into danger. Be aware that your cat (or your neighbours) might be hiding under your car or in your engine to keep warm. They might get too close to an open fire, so it is always good idea to have a fire guard so that sparks don’t land on their coat. Ensure you check your shed or garage for any stray cats inside before shutting it up for any period as it too will be an attractive place to stay on a cold winter’s day. WATER: It is just as important in winter for your pet to have access to plenty of water. Indoor heating can cause some dehydration, so make sure they have access to fresh water. Cats do prefer to drink from running water, so considering a pet water fountain is a good idea. If it is very cold outside make sure the water for pets housed outside or in kennels doesn’t get iced over and freeze. FIREWORKS: Many people celebrate the New Year with fireworks; pets are often frightened by these sudden bangs and flashes. Ensure they have a safe place to hide, consider leaving a radio on for indoor pets, closing curtains, windows and doors and possibly using a product to help them relax such as Nutracalm® or Adaptil® available from your vet. If your pet suffers from severe anxiety then contact your vet for more individual advice and treatment. Outdoor pets are often neglected in this regard – don’t rule out moving them into a shed or even indoors to give them some shelter, as a minimum cover any exposed areas and soundproof their home as much as possible. GUESTS: An influx of friends and relatives can be quite daunting for your pet, again remember they may need a safe place to hide from this sudden activity in your home (as may you!) Don’t assume your pet will love the attentions of Auntie Maude as much as you do! FLEAS: Fleas are not just a summer problem. Heated homes can set off a flea cycle as well as the warmer weather, so make sure you keep your pets treated all throughout the year.


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