Spring is officially less than a month away, meaning Brits will soon start to notice longer days and even a glimpse of sunshine.
Unfortunately for the time being, the Met Office has forecast plenty of rainy days ahead, meaning it’s not time to ditch the umbrellas and warm coats just yet.
It’s also during such seasonal changes that pet owners may overlook their furry friends’ needs.
“Seasonal changes can have a bigger impact on pets than many owners realise. Even small shifts in temperature, routine or clothing can affect their comfort, behaviour and overall wellbeing,” Walsh tells The Standard.
While risks such as fireworks or hot summer pavements are well known, some of the biggest overlooked concerns include arthritis and skin issues related to changes in temperature.
With this in mind, here are a vet’s tips on what to remember during seasonal changes.
Seasonal dangers to keep in mind
According to Ms Walsh, cold and rainy days can be “particularly tough” on pets with arthritis and joint problems.
Although today has brought a refreshing dose of sunshine to London, “changeable conditions” are forecast as we head into March. And, it’s this volatility that can be extra tough for our animals.
“Lower temperatures can cause joints to stiffen and muscles to tense up, making movement more painful and uncomfortable,” she said.
While this may predominantly impact older pets, it’s important to keep your house warm and keep them away from draughts to make sure they stay healthy.
“There are adaptations that can be made at home too, such as providing warm, dry, padded bedding, keeping pets out of draughts, and maintaining gentle, regular exercise, which can all help to manage symptoms. Owners should also be mindful that sudden drops in activity can worsen joint stiffness,” she said.
Surprisingly, not all pet coats are good for our dogs.
While small animals can benefit from a coat to keep warm, there is a risk of the coat rubbing and causing skin irritation and fur matting.
“Rubbing around the shoulders, chest, or under the legs is a common issue if a coat doesn’t fit properly or is worn for too long. It’s important owners regularly check their pet’s skin and ensure coats are removed indoors,” Walsh explains.
The vet also adds that some breeds have naturally thick insulation that doesn’t require the extra layers, so it’s best to only use coats when appropriate.
“Dress-up or clothing that purely looks nice rather than used for practical purposes is not recommended,” she said. “Not only does it not serve a purpose for your pet, but it can also be restrictive and may be made from material that is likely to make your pet feel very uncomfortable. There’s also the risk of over-heating to be mindful of.
Although the snow may be behind us, Walsh explains, there are still some risks associated with winter tools such as grit and antifreeze.
“Owners should also be cautious of other seasonal hazards such as antifreeze, which is extremely poisonous to pets,” she explained. “Even small amounts can be fatal, so spills should be cleaned up immediately and products stored securely.
“Grit and salt used on pavements and roads can also cause problems for pets, as it can get caught between pads, cause skin irritation, or lead to stomach upsets if licked or eaten.”
On top of that, the current seasonal weather can also impact your pooch’s skin and fur, making regular grooming and a balanced diet all the more important.
“Exposure to cold weather like frost, ice, and snow can also cause dry and cracked skin, particularly on a pet’s nose and paw pads,” she said. “Check and wipe their paws after being outdoors, and have any concerns checked with your vet, as this can be really sore for our pets.”
On top of that, keep up to date with flea treatments as “it is a myth that fleas aren’t a problem in the colder months – they don’t really like the cold, but they do love a nice warm centrally heated home unfortunately!”
While it’s still cold and rainy outside, it’s easy for pets to miss their regular walks or for outdoor time to be cut short to avoid the miserable weather.
During these times, it’s important to remember your pet’s physical fitness and adjust to help keep them healthy.
“Exercise is essential not just for a pet’s body, but also for their mental health,” said Walsh.
“If pets aren’t getting enough physical and mental stimulation, you may notice an increase in destructive behaviours such as chewing, barking, digging or restlessness. Your dog might showcase these behaviours due to boredom.
“When outdoor exercise is limited, indoor activities can help fill the gap. Training sessions, food puzzles, scent games, and interactive play at home can all provide valuable mental and physical stimulation for your dog and help prevent boredom-related behaviour problems.