Wintry weather advice for dog owners

Lucy Cooper and Ellie Cunningham walk Reggie the dog through the snow on Common lane, Beccles.Picture: Nick Butcher (Image: Archant © 2018)

During this wintry weather there are a number of ways you can help keep your dog safe during what can be hazardous walks.

The Dogs Trust, which have a rehoming centre in Snetterton, have issued some helpful advice.

• Put a coat on your dog and keep them on leads in heavy snow as it can be disorientating.

• Make sure your dog is wearing a collar, an ID tag and is microchipped.

Blue the dog in Wootton Park. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2018)

• Wipe their legs, feet and stomach when you come indoors after a snowy walk as the grit from the roads can irritate their feet.

• Do not let your dog walk on frozen ponds - the ice may not be thick enough to take his weight.

• Antifreeze is highly poisonous. Keep it out of their reach and mop up spills.

If your dog does fall through ice do not go in after him.

Dogs Trust winter advice for dogs. Picture: Dogs Trust (Image: Archant)

If possible encourage them to swim back to you and call the emergency services.

Walking in the snow and ice

It can be dangerous taking for owners taking their dogs out with the icy paths and deep snow.

• Wear shoes or boots which have a good grip.

• Take smaller steps than what you would usually do and walk flat footed.

• Walk at a slower pace.

• Wrap up warm with a coat, scarf, gloves and hat.

• Carrying a mobile phone in case you or your dog gets into trouble.

• Keep your hands out of your pockets. If you fall there is more of a chance of saving yourself.

• Walk on designated paths.