RSPCA Qld Need Blankets!

G'day Dog Lovers,

We got the below request from RSPCA Qld who are in urgent need of some donations of blankets...

Cool change cold comfort for pets!
The seemingly never ending rain and cooler temperatures have left RSPCA Qld's Fairfield and Dakabin Shelters in urgent need of blankets, towels and doonas.

"We're simply running out," says Fairfield Shelter Manager Nanda Ten-Grotenhuis. "One of the problems of course is that as soon as we get them dry they're wet again. If anyone has any old blankets they're not using we'd love them! If they are able to bring them to the Shelters that would be fantastic as our volunteers are being run off their feet collecting materials from all over the Brisbane."

Winter tips for pet owners.
Winter's here and you may have noticed your older dog, cat or even horse starting to look a bit stiff when they walk and having trouble getting up from a lying position. Yes, it's probably old age and a bit of arthritis but did you know that you can do something about it! They can be made a lot more comfortable during winter by providing warm and comfortable bedding. A visit to your vet will also help make them feel better during winter. Often they can be given anti-inflammatories to ease the discomfort associated with arthritic joints.

In winter, pets need extra blankets and shelter from the cold wind. Many dogs kept outside have their own kennel and a few warm blankets in there will help keep the winter chills at bay. Alternatively you could move them into the garage or laundry area. Many owners give their dogs (particularly the short haired breeds) special doggie coats that can be purchased from a pet store. Or perhaps you've got an old warm shirt you don't need! If your pet won't destroy it a hot water bottle wrapped well in a towel will help keep them comfortable too. You can also purchase special heating pads from pet stores.

Often cats will find your bed and electric blanket by themselves. But if you don't want them to share your bed, you must provide them with a warm alternative.

Keeping warm often means that your pet will burn more energy and thus need a bit more to eat in winter. This is particularly important for older, thin pets and the very young. Providing a calorie dense commercial pet food specifically formulated for senior pets and puppies/kittens is a good choice. This will ensure that each age group receives the necessary vitamins and minerals in the right balance for their particular needs. Such diets will also give you the correct feeding guidelines for your pet's weight.