WITH below freezing temperatures forecast for Dorset recently, vet organisations are warning owners to take extra care of small pets which live outdoors.

Animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs are vulnerable to the cold and damp despite their furry coats.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and British Veterinary Zoological Society (BVZS) are asking owners with outdoor hutches and runs to be vigilant during cold snaps and make sure their pets’ living space is well-protected from frost and winter rain.

BVZS President Mark Stidworthy said: “The small body size of these animals makes them very susceptible to hypothermia if they get cold or damp. They are powerless to alter the environment provided for them as conditions change, and so they rely on their human carers to make sure that their housing is safe and warm enough.”

Owners are being urged to ensure pets’ homes are waterproof, draught-proof, dry and ventilated, as well as escape-proof and predator-proof, checking regularly throughout the winter for water marks or other signs of damage.

They are also advised to make sure rabbits and guinea pigs have extra bedding to keep warm during colder weather, and if the weather becomes very severe consider moving outdoor pets inside to a well-ventilated space with light and room to exercise.