RSPCA: Keep wildlife and pets warm through the big freeze

Wednesday, 7 January 2009 12:00 AM

As the winter chill continues, the RSPCA is urging people to take special care of their animals and keep a close eye on their garden visitors. The call comes after a cow sadly drowned after falling into a dewpond on the South Downs in Sussex, and a dog was rescued after falling into an icy pond in Cambridge.

RSPCA wildlife centres caring for hedgehogs are also appealing for extra donations of hedgehog bedding because it is currently too cold to release the undersized animals back into the wild.

The many underweight hedgehogs that are being cared for will now have to remain in the charity's care until the cold snap passes. As a result, bedding such as shredded paper is beginning to run low, and would be gratefully received by our centres in Somerset, Sussex and Cheshire," says RSPCA Senior Scientist Tim Thomas.

"This time of year can be hard for both wildlife and pets but there are certain things you can do to ensure animals living both outside, and in, get through the cold winter months safely," says Tim.

The charity has the following tips to make sure animals don't suffer through the cold snap:

Dogs with thin or sparse coats, who are very young or old may benefit from a coat when out exercising. Two or three shorter walks may be enjoyed more than one long expedition. For safety, keep dogs well away from ponds and lakes that are iced over.

Cats must always able to find suitable warmth and shelter, so make sure they are not shut outside for prolonged periods of time.

Outdoor pets need plenty of bedding to snuggle in for warmth and must be able to stay dry and draught free. Horses and ponies must always have access to shelter and will need plenty of fresh water and, in some cases, a rug or extra food.

Fish ponds should be checked daily to ensure the water has not frozen.
If it has, place a saucepan of hot water on the surface to gently melt the ice, or use one of the products available from garden centres to maintain an air hole through which pond dwellers can breathe. Never smash the ice or pour boiling water directly into the pond as this can shock and kill fish.

Farm animals need good sources of drinking water and extra food available if necessary. If it is not possible to bring animals such as sheep inside, be extra vigilant to ensure none are stuck in snow and if possible keep them away from frozen water where the risk of falling in is great.

Hedgehogs hibernate between November and mid to late March so you can help by leaving piles of leaves that you haven't got round to raking up yet, as these are perfect places for nests.

Birds need water to bathe in to keep their feathers in tip-top condition to stay warm and dry - as well as to drink. Make sure you clean water bowls and top up with fresh water, as dirty bowls can be a major source of disease. Also, break any ice if the water has frozen over. Birds may have difficulty finding natural foods such as berries, insects, seeds, worms and fruit. Any alternative food you put out during these cold months will help birds survive until the spring. Birds love festive left-overs, such as crumbled bread, stale cake and biscuits, cheese, cooked rice, and fruit. Nuts of all kinds are welcome but make sure they are not sweetened or salted, and put them in a strong birdfeeder.

Badgers will sleep through much of the most severe weather, however, they do not hibernate and will continue their nightly forays to enjoy worms and fruit. They will certainly enjoy food like lightly cooked meats, cheese, peanuts and fruit when the ground is frozen.

Squirrels are always thankful for unsweetened or unsalted nuts over winter. Hazlenuts, walnuts, and almonds are the favourites, and for an extra treat, why not throw in some chopped apple, carrots, spinach or green beans.

Anyone who sees an animal in difficulty can contact the RSPCA on 0300
1234 999.

-ends-

Notes for editors:

· Photographs of hedgehogs currently in the care of the RSPCA at West Hatch Wildlife Centre are available by contacting the press office.

· Details for donations:

Shredded paper that is strip cut and not cross cut is ideal for bedding for hedgehogs.

RSPCA West Hatch Wildlife Centre, near Taunton in Somerset would welcome donations immediately or collect from local businesses if the supply is sufficient. Contact 0300 123 0721.

RSPCA Mallydams Wood Wildlife Centre, near Hastings, East Sussex would welcome donations from local companies or public of shredded paper or blankets. Contact 0300 123 0723.

RSPCA Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre, near Nantwich in Cheshire would also welcome donations but asks people to call 0300 123 0722 first.

RSPCA, Wilberforce Way, Southwater, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 9RS Press office direct lines: 0300 123 0244/0288 Fax: 0303 123 0099 Duty press officer (evenings and weekends) Tel 0870 0555500 and ask for pager number 828825
Email: press@rspca.org.uk Website: www.rspca.org.uk

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