WALKING THE DOG: Pets could be at risk if forced outdoors when it’s too cold

by BILL HEANEY

Snow is forecast in West Dunbartonshire’s hills, along Loch Lomondside towards Herensburgh and the Gareloch, on the Long Crags in Dumbarton, including Old Kilpatrick, leading to warnings that winter weather conditions can prove fatal to dogs.

“It is up to responsible owners to know exactly when it gets cold enough to skip the daily walk,” said one local veterinary surgeon.

Pets could be at risk if forced outdoors in the extreme cold. Some dogs are better equipped to handle the cold, while others struggle with even a slight chill. It all depends on your dog’s size and breed. At 15°C, it’s usually safe for most dogs to walk in. The vet said: “It’s the perfect temperature.”

However, the UK is unlikely to see temperatures close to that during the next few months. Approaching the depths of winter, single figures are more likely.

One vet said: “[Between] 7 and 4°C, this is fine for most dogs to be walked in. However, if you own a small dog, puppy or thin-coated dog, they may need a coat.”

In temperatures that drop below 0°C, small, elderly, and short-haired dogs may be at risk of health issues if precautions are not taken. Responsible pet owners should watch out for signs of hypothermia.

While temperatures that dip as low as -9°C in the UK are rare, they can happen – and these are “potentially life-threatening” to dogs, the vet warns, especially elderly, small breeds and dogs who get wet. He added that no dog is safe when temperatures hit -12°C, claiming: “Outdoor time should be limited to toilet breaks only.”

What are the signs of hypothermia in dogs?

Signs of hypothermia in dogs include shivering, lack of energy, weakness, pale or bluish gums, cold ears and paws, and a slowed heart rate or breathing. In more severe cases, a dog may stop shivering, become disoriented, have dilated pupils, or collapse.

If you think your pet is suffering from hypothermia, it’s important to administer first aid and call your vet immediately. Acting quickly could save their life.

Slowly increase the temperature around them by turning on the heating in your house or car. Be careful not to warm them up too quickly or burn them with anything hot, such as a hot water bottle.

Dumbarton Rock and the Sons’ Stadium. The Castle Park and Round Riding Road are favourite routes for dog walkers, who have been warned to take care of their pets if it gets too cold in the snow. The castle picture is by PixbyPEDRO