As Storm Bert prepares to blanket the UK with heavy snow this weekend, there’s one crucial thing all dog owners must do.
The Met Office has issued several weather warnings for this weekend. On Saturday (November 23) there will be snow warnings in place across Northern Ireland, Scotland, northern England and the Midlands.
An amber warning is also set to come into force across a portion of rural Scotland, where up to 40cm (approximately 16in) of snow could fall on higher ground. Lower areas across the country could see between 5cm to 10cm of snow on Saturday.
If you’re planning to take your dog out for a walk in the frosty weather, there’s an important safety measure you need to take.
TikTok user Alex (@nuggypup), who shares her life with her dog Nugget on the platform, advises in a video: “If you’re walking your dog out in the snow today, make sure you do this one thing when you get home.”
She explains that the grit used during snowy conditions “can be toxic to dogs and can also irritate their paws”, so it’s vital to give them a thorough wipe down upon returning home.
According to the RSPCA, rock salt can be a danger to pets such as cats and dogs “if they lick it from their paws or fur”. It states: “Most cases [of rock salt poisoning] involve animals that have walked through gritted snow and then lick or chew it off their paws as they can find it irritating.
“It is therefore important to thoroughly wipe your pet’s feet and the fur on his/her legs and tummy after a walk or time outside. If he/she is showing any signs of discomfort after possible exposure to rock salt, use a mild, pet-safe shampoo and warm water to wash the affected areas, and dry your pet’s fur completely with a towel after washing.”
The RSPCA adds that any animal suspected to have ingested rock salt “must be assessed by a vet immediately”.