Winter in the UK is a time of frosty mornings, cosy fires, and the occasional snowfall. Here at Penny’s Ark, we worry about the vulnerable animals in awful weather conditions that we haven’t yet reached, but even for our safely housed pets, it can be a challenging season.  

Here are some tips and joke (we will apologise now) to help you care for your cats, dogs, hedgehogs, birds, rabbits and anything else you can care for this winter: 

1. Cosy Cats and Dogs 🐱🐶🔥 

Cats and dogs love a warm spot to curl up in. Make sure their bed is away from drafts and if possible,  off the cold floor. A comfy pet bed with a warm blanket can be the purr-fect snuggle spot! Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet so coats are always a good idea. You can buy ones that are waterproof, reflective, and even thermal! They do them with harness holes too. 

Joke Time: What do you call a dog magician? A “labracadabrador”! 😂 

2. Protect Those Paws 🐾❄️ 

Salt and grit on the roads can be harmful to your pet’s paws and even their noses. Remember that skin sticks to ice and can get sore and chapped. A warm paw bath can help soothe sore skin. Consider investing in some pet-friendly paw balm or booties to protect their feet. 

Joke Time: What do you call a cold dog? A “chilli dog”! 😂 

3. Happy Hedgehogs and Radiant Rabbits 🦔🐰🍂 

Hedgehogs hibernate in the winter, so be careful when tidying your garden. Leave piles of leaves for them to nest in and check bonfires before lighting. If you find a hedgehog awake in the daytime, check its weight. They need to be above 500g to survive winter. There are many vets and rescues that will help a struggling hedgehog. Rabbits need extra bedding in winter to keep warm. If your rabbits live outside, consider moving their hutch to a shed or unused garage (but not if a car is kept there). 

Joke Time: What do you call a rabbit with fleas? Bugs Bunny! 😂 

3. Winter Walks and Activities 🏞️⛄ 

Winter walks can be a lot of fun. Try to walk your pet during daylight hours when it’s warmer. You could also build a snow maze or hide treats in the snow for your pet to find but please don’t let your dogs chase wild animals. If you are on a nature reserve, please make sure you keep your dogs on a lead as there are so many wintering birds resting and animals hibernating. 

Joke Time: Why don’t animals play cards in the wild? Because there are too many “cheetahs”! 😂 

4. Bountiful Birds and Squirrels 🐦🍒 

Birds can struggle to find food in winter. Consider setting up a feedings station in your garden. Remember to provide fresh water too! If you are lucky enough to have both types of visitors, please try to use squirrel proof feeders for the birds or they will miss out! 

Joke Time: Why do birds fly south in the winter? It’s too far to walk! 😂 

Please remember to check your car for hiding cats or hedgehogs before starting the engine. They do like a warm hiding spot! 

Everyone at Penny’s Ark wishes you a warm and fun winter with your pets! 🐾❄️ Please let us know if you have any great winter tips to help our furry friends!