Steps to ensure stray animals thrive this winter
As winter envelops the world in its icy embrace, the plight of stray animals becomes increasingly precarious. From frigid temperatures to limited food sources, these creatures confront adversities that pose genuine threats to their survival. Fortunately, we can lend a helping hand and ensure that stray animals not only survive but thrive during the winter months. Here are some fundamental actions that can help.
Make temporary shelter
It is unsafe and difficult to stay on the road during chilly evenings. Finding a dog shelter in a park or a shed surrounding your home is the ideal option if you want to give them warmth, safety, and protection. A cardboard box or plastic box can also be used to construct a home. Clean, fresh straw works well for bedding.
Feed them high-calorie food and water
Pets such as dogs and cats require a full stomach since they use a lot of energy to maintain regulated body temperatures. Provide calorie-rich foods and clean drinking water to help them stay warm and energetic. Typically, they should be fed a single, well-balanced meal that includes proteins such as eggs, soybeans, peas, and rice along with sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrots, and some meat.
Provide warm jackets
Utilize old blankets, abandoned coats, sweaters, and bedsheets to create cozy bedding and jackets for street dogs and cats. Two medium-sized street animals can have a great, snug bed made out of a single, old blanket. You can prepare a cozy and warm bed for them by getting big jute bags, filling them with old or discarded clothing and sealing the top.
Take care of sick animals
If you come across an ill or injured dog: call a nearby rescue organization or take it to the vet. Use betadine on the injured area if the injury is minimal. This will prevent skin infections. Make sure to spay or neuter stray dogs in your neighborhood. You can use a feline-safe antiseptic, such as chlorhexidine solution, on the affected area of injured cats.
Organize community efforts
Encourage and educate the local population to help and take care of street animals in the winter together. Support or collaborate with local animal welfare organizations. They often conduct winter drives. Raise awareness by organizing or volunteering animal welfare events and inspiring others, particularly kids and youngsters, to participate. If possible, help the strays find a permanent house for shelter.
