The UK’s leading pet emergency service, Vets Now, is bracing itself for a busy spell as the Met Office has warned severe cold weather is set to hit the UK this week, with overnight temperatures plummeting to -6C (21F) in places.
Vets Now emergency hospitals and clinics up and down the country see a rise in cold weather-related cases as temperatures plummet – with adverse winter weather including frost, fog, snow and high winds affecting our pets.
Extreme wintry weather is a threat to our pets, with dogs, cats, rabbits and other small pets all at risk during adverse weather. Common issues emergency vets will treat include; cats poisoned by antifreeze, cats and dogs suffering from frostbite on paws, breathing difficulties from dogs who have short-noses and pets injuring themselves due to icy and slippery surfaces, or injuries on snow-covered hazards such as rocks.
Vets Now head of telehealth, Dave Leicester, who is responsible for a team of experienced vets at Vets Now’s Video Vets Now service said: “When the weather turns, pets and their owners need us more than ever, and we’re keen to prepare pet owners about the potential dangers of cold weather. Our veterinary teams up and down the country are working hard, making extra preparations for the continued forecasted cold snap across large parts of the UK.”
Dave added: “Snowfall and freezing temperatures can pose a serious threat to your pet. Whilst we are always here to give your pets the best possible care in the event of an emergency, we would like to help in any way we can to prevent these emergencies from ever happening in the first place. We’ve produced some advice to help you protect your pet and prevent unwanted illness or injury. It’s essential you’re aware of what to do when faced with a pet emergency, especially when it’s out of hours and your vet is closed.”
There are more than 60 Vets Now clinics and hospitals across the UK that are open through the night, seven-days-a-week, and day and night on weekends, to treat any pet emergencies that may occur. All of Vets Now’s premises have a vet and vet nurse on site at all times, and remain open during lockdown. Vets Now also offers an online video consultation through its Video Vets Now service to make professional veterinary advice easily available from home.
For more hints and tips, and advice on what to do in a pet emergency during cold weather, visit www.vets-now.com
