As temperatures in Eastern Australia drop to 15-year lows this weekend, it’s time to be extra vigilant about the warmth and safety of our furry family members. I woke up today with Bella under the covers with me, and Beary on top of the covers but stretched out along my back. We were all toasty warm.

Not all dogs are this loved up. Sadly. 

Your local rescue organisation would love any old towels and blankets you no longer need or use. Better yet, visit a shelter and offer someone a forever home. Or foster an animal to get them out of a cold cement cell and into your warm home. 

Homeless people and their pets need as much as we can give them too. Instead of walking past the next homeless person you see, why not stop and say hello? Give them your coffee money. Better yet, ask them if they’d like a hot drink and buy one for both of you. A little kindness goes a long way.

Some winter pet care tips  {from RSPCA NSW}

The Bureau of Meteorology predicts a strong cold front this weekend could see the biggest outbreak of frigid conditions in 15 years. As forecasters tip Sunday to be the coldest day, RSPCA is urging pet owners to factor in the effects of this cold snap on their animals.

Top tips from RSPCA NSW Chief Veterinarian Magdoline Awad;

• Provide adequate shelter that keeps your pets protected from the wind and rain. If your animal is housed outside, provide a warm kennel that is elevated from the ground with thick bedding materials. In extreme weather conditions, it is preferable to bring animals inside if possible. If your animal is inside, provide them with a warm area to sleep that is elevated from the cold floor and away from drafts. Make sure fire places and heaters have safety grills and screens so your pets cannot get too close for comfort, and end up with burns.
• Accessorise your pets with winter woollies that will help them maintain their body temperature in the cooler weather. This is particularly important for short-coated breeds. The elderly, young and those with underlying illness feel the cold more than others, and are probably best indoors.
• Animals’ nutritional requirements can also increase in winter months. More energy is used to keep core body temperature regulated, meaning if your pet spends significant amounts of time outdoors or is exposed to colder temperatures, they will have a higher daily caloric requirement and need more food.
• Just like us, dogs and cats suffer the effects of arthritic pain more in cold, wintry weather. If you know your pet has arthritis or you notice things like lameness, a stiff gait, difficulty getting up and reluctance to exercise a trip to your vet is essential. Arthritis can be debilitating and painful, but can be managed with various treatments.

Stay safe and warm friends. For those of you in summer climes, soak up some sunshine for us!