Locals were greeted with the cold this morning and the Bloemfontein SPCA has requested that pet owners take some extra care of their furry friends during the cold.
“Make sure your animals have an appropriate kennel at home, this will keep the worst of the cold out if your pets don’t sleep inside. Not any old shelter will do, and the following should be considered: The shelter must be big enough to accommodate their size and breed. If the animals stay outside, make sure their kennel is placed where it is not directly in the cold,” said the SPCA on a post on Facebook.
Placing the kennel inside your garage is a better option as advised by the SPCA.
Pet owners can also try to attempt to weatherproof the kennel to make sure it is free from unwanted leaks or openings.
“This can be accomplished by putting blankets or old carpets against the inner walls and ensuring they are attached firmly. Further carpets or blankets can be placed on the bottom of the kennel to keep your animal warm and comfy. Owners can further lift the kennel off the ground to better keep out the cold. This can be done with a pallet or a few bricks.”
It is also recommend that owners place an infrared light inside the kennel that will aid in keeping it warm.
“Just ensure this is placed in such a way as to not cause injury or distress to your dog. Warm blankets and jerseys can also be purchased from the Bloemfontein SPCA to assist your beloved four-legged friend through the worst of winter,” advised the SPCA.
The SPCA also warned that the winter can bring a variety of diseases and conditions owners should look out for.
“It is important that owners ensure that their pets have their vaccinations up to date. Owners should further let older pets stay as warm as possible as similar to humans the cold can cause pain in hips, joints and bones. Animals experiencing pain or discomfort should be taken to local veterinarians for assistance to alleviate the pain,” concluded the SPCA.
To aid the local SPCA in their continuous care for animals across the city, locals are encouraged to assist with blanket donations that can be dropped off at the SPCA (25 McGregor Street, East End).
Compiled by Gypseenia Lion
