Matt Whittaker, manager of Pets At Home Swindon, writes about keeping pets warm in the winter

The dark nights and colder days are upon us once more, and while you’re wrapping up in a cosy jumper and sipping hot tea, don’t forget to consider your pet once the temperature starts to drop.

If you haven’t already, take your pet for a pre-winter check-up to make sure they are in good health following the summer heat. Your vet should also be able to advise on any nutritional changes you’ll need to make. Outdoor pets, for example, may require more food in cold weather to keep their bodies warm, so you want to be giving them the right amount of food.

You might be tempted to bring outdoor pets inside when it is cold, but this isn’t essential. The key thing is to think about where you position them when they are outside. Hutches should be placed in an area that is sheltered from draughts and bad weather. A cover will also keep them protected from wind and rain.

Rabbits in particular should have a good supply of straw or hay bedding in a draught-free corner of the hutch – but never give them a blanket as they will most likely chew it, which can make them ill. Another option is to move their hutch into an unused garage or shed with good ventilation.

However, if the temperature is bitterly cold, you can bring outdoor pets inside – but keep a close eye on them. Like humans, they will naturally want to curl up near to the heat, so if you have an open fire for example, make sure it is well guarded and pets are a safe distance away.

Autumn and winter are lovely times for long walks with your dog, and depending on your dog’s breed and fur you might want to invest in a snug winter coat for them. There are plenty of products available for keeping dogs warm, from coats to sweaters – and for the fashion conscious there’s an array of designs and colours too.

As it gets dark earlier in winter, it’s also worth investing in a high visibility or reflective coat. These are designed to keep pets safe in low light conditions, but are also water resistant, to keep them dry in wet weather.

The most important thing any pet owner can do to protect their pet in the winter months is to monitor them for any changes in behaviour or appearance. If you do notice anything strange, be sure to visit your vet. If you are at all unsure about how to look after your pet during the winter months, come in-store and ask one of our friendly colleagues.