A leading veterinary surgeon has issued a stark winter warning to all pet owners across the UK, urging heightened vigilance as evenings draw in dramatically early.
The Heightened Danger as Darkness Falls
With dusk now arriving around 4pm, the period for late-afternoon dog walks and outdoor cat activity has become significantly more hazardous. This fresh alert coincides with Road Safety Week, which began on November 17.
The statistics are sobering. According to the animal charity Blue Cross, vehicles are responsible for the deaths of approximately 80,000 dogs and 200,000 cats each year in the UK. Veterinary experts are emphasising that the early nightfall severely reduces visibility, making cats and dogs far harder for motorists to spot.
Dr Sarah Page-Jones, Head Veterinary Surgeon at Pet Drugs Online, stated: "Every pet owner wants to provide the very best care for their furry friends, but owning an animal means being responsible for their safety and protecting them from threats, with roadside dangers among the most serious." She stressed that unpredictable driver behaviour means owners must "pay attention and stay alert" at all times.
Essential Safety Tips for Dog Owners
For those walking dogs in the late afternoon or evening, specific precautions are non-negotiable. Dr Page-Jones advises always using a short, sturdy lead near roads, even for dogs with excellent recall. Loud traffic can spook any animal, and a short lead prevents them from reaching the road's edge.
Creating a physical barrier by walking with your dog on the inside of the pavement is also recommended. Furthermore, reflective gear is essential. Coats, collars, and harnesses with reflective strips dramatically improve a dog's visibility in low light. Owners are also encouraged to wear reflective clothing themselves.
For households with multiple dogs, the advice is to only walk as many as you can confidently control, especially in the dark. Dr Page-Jones also highlighted the importance of training and control, noting that "a well-trained, responsive dog gives you greater control and peace of mind when walking near busy roads." For dogs still in training, a harness can offer better control than a standard collar.
Protecting Outdoor Cats in Winter
Outdoor cats face particular risks during the winter months. Once darkness falls, they become incredibly difficult for drivers to see. The ideal solution, according to Dr Page-Jones, is to keep cats indoors during the evening, allowing them outside only during daylight hours when visibility is better and traffic is often lighter.
If a cat must go out after dark, a reflective collar can be a lifesaver by increasing its visibility to motorists. The expert also gave a crucial reminder about microchipping. "While you can’t control their movements once they’re outside, microchipping your cat ensures you can locate them more easily if they go missing or are involved in an accident," she explained.
It is also important to note that in the UK, it is a legal requirement to microchip your cat once they are over 20 weeks old, making compliance with these guidelines essential for all owners.
