WITH temperatures remaining low over the weekend, an animal welfare charity is reminding farmers to keep livestock safe. 

The RSPCA has issued their top tips on keeping your animals safe amid the freezing temperatures and icy weather. 

Pet welfare specialist Same Gaines said: “It’s really important we help our animal friends during this bitterly cold weather. We’re encouraging people to join the rescue to help animals so we’re sharing our helpful advice and tips available for people to make sure their own animals, and local wildlife, are kept safe.”

RSPCA advice to animal owners in cold weather 

  • Antifreeze and rock salt - commonly used at this time of year - can be poisonous to pets so keep any stored products out of their reach. If you’re concerned your pet may have ingested anything they shouldn’t, please speak to your vet immediately.
  • When walking your dog in the dark or riding your horse, wear reflective clothing and think about reflective protection for your pet too!
  • If you keep pet birds in aviaries, coops, or runs, then you should also protect them from the cold weather. Provide plenty of additional dry, warm bedding such as straw and cover enclosures to keep the wind and rain out. Birds will eat more to keep warm in cold conditions so ensure the birds always have access to plenty of food and fresh water, ensuring water does not freeze over.
  • Horses and livestock need extra care in the winter, such as adequate shelter to escape bad weather, extra feed as grass can be sparse, and regular checks on water troughs to keep them clear of ice. Give added protection with a waterproof rug, ensure they have access to dry standing areas, and check hooves regularly for loose shoes or signs of problems such as mud fever. Farmers and smallholders should give extra consideration to young animals and whether they need extra protection from the cold weather.
  • Wildlife may need an extra helping hand during tough, winter conditions. Birds can struggle to find food during the winter months so, to help them stay strong over this period, householders can leave out extra food for them (like suitable seeds and grains such as oats and sunflower seeds; cooked pasta or rice; boiled potatoes, cheese, or uncooked unsalted bacon rind; raisins and sultanas; net-free fat or suet balls; apples, pears and soft fruits; insects such as mealworms or waxworms).
  • Carefully check any wood or leaf piles for wild animals such as hedgehogs, frogs and mice before lighting any fires or bonfires. If you find wild animals in hibernation, be sure to leave them be.
  • The RSPCA doesn’t advise keeping dogs outside in any weather. Meeting the needs of dogs when they’re kept outside is very hard - and more so in very low temperatures. Owners should make sure their dogs have a clean, comfortable and dry sleeping area with a safe heat source so the temperature does not drop below 10°C (50°F).