RSPCA Nottingham and Notts Branch News

The country is experiencing one of the worst winters we've had in 30 years. The RSPCA is dealing with thousands of calls due to the adverse weather however it is difficult reaching animals in distress because of conditions and we are urging owners to think and try and prevent accidents/situations occurring.
It may seem like common sense to keep animals away from frozen lakes/ponds/drifts but our Inspectors are being called upon daily to deal with animals who have fallen through ice so it seems people need to be more aware of the dangers.

1. Walk your dog on a lead to prevent them running off onto frozen water.
2. Be vigilant re the ice and snow damaging/injuring your pets feet, some breeds cope better with cold weather than others. Impacted snow hurts!
3. Make sure any pet housed outdoors (rabbits/guinea pigs) are free from draughts, damp and have plenty of bedding. In these conditions it is advised to move small animals into a shed/garage or outhouse.
4. Water...seems common sense but water bowls/bottles/drippers freeze and need checking.
5. Horses should be rugged up or better still stabled in very bad weather. Plenty hay and water should be available.
6. If your garden pond freezes over, place a sauce of hot water on the ice to melt it. NEVER pour hot water into the pond as this could kill any fish/wildlife.
7. REMEMBER to feed and water garden birds and wildlife. Stale cake, bacon rind, cheese nuts and of course fresh drinking water all help our wild and feathered friends get through to spring.

Our Inspectors, Animal Collection Officers and drivers try their best to reach animals who need help in this cold weather but they have to struggle with the snow and ice too. We are appealing to everyone to please do everything you can to keep animals safe as we are currently only able to deal with emergency calls.