Ice, snow and sub-zero temperatures often not only cause problems for people, pets also need more care in winter.

Dogs: Most dogs have a thick coat - they don't mind the sub-zero temperatures at all, they enjoy exercising outdoors. As long as they get some exercise. If the dog has to wait outside the store in the freezing cold, the risk of a bladder infection increases. Only weak animals with extremely short coats need a dog coat to give them additional protection from the cold. If a dog starts to shiver outside: go home immediately.

Pets in winter: Protect dogs' paws with Vaseline

Beware of road salt and ice: dogs' paws are sensitive and do not like harsh road salt. If you rub Vaseline or milking grease into the paws, the little paws will survive even a long walk. After a walk, wash the paws with lukewarm water and dry them thoroughly.

Parasites such as fleas are in high season in winter and can also spread quickly at home. Suitable preparations for treatment can be found in pharmacies and at the vet.

Cats that live outside should be kept indoors at night in winter to protect them from the icy temperatures.

Rabbits can stay outside

If you keep rabbits and guinea pigs outdoors, they can also stay outside in winter if they have a thick winter coat, which they only get if they live outside all the time. The hutch must be well insulated, dry and clean. Provide plenty of straw, bedding and hay in the hutch, as the animals use these to build a warm den. Nutritious feed is now very important, make sure that the drinking trough is not frozen.