Temperatures around the UK have plummeted, with parts of the country forecast to see 5cm of snow on Friday.
A yellow weather warning for snow and ice will remain in place until 11am on Friday for the eastern coast of the UK, stretching from Scotland to East Anglia. Elsewhere, ice warnings remain in place for Northern Ireland and south-west England.
Snow swept across the South West, parts of Yorkshire, the North East and Scotland on Thursday.
According to the Met Office, the North York Moors and Scotland are expected to get snow on Friday, with up to 5cm falling in areas 100m to 200m above sea level.
What is the weather forecast from the Met Office?
Met Office meteorologist Ellie Glaisyer said: “For most of us it will be dry and bright. There will be some wintry showers over the hills.
“There could be 2cm to 5cm of snow for areas 100m to 200m above sea level, with rain falling at lower levels, particularly Northern Ireland and western Scotland.
“The North York Moors and parts of Scotland will likely get snow.
“There will be another widespread frost, with a max temperature of 5ºC across the South.”
Is it too cold to walk my dog?
How your dog reacts to cold is dependent on a number of issues, including its size, age and the thickness of its coat.
Smaller dogs with less fur may struggle when temperatures edge towards zero and may benefit from a coat when they go outside.
Older dogs may also be more susceptible to the cold weather.
A temperature of -7ºC and below puts all dogs at a higher risk of hypothermia and frostbite, however.
Outward Hound says: “The double-layered, thick coats of dog breeds like Siberian huskies, Newfoundlands, Alaskan malamutes, and Bernese mountain dogs tend to be the most cold tolerant.
“On the other hand, dogs like Greyhounds, German shorthaired pointers, or American pit bull terriers who have short, thin coats will have a more difficult time maintaining a warm body temperature in colder weather.
“Smaller dogs and toy breeds like Chihuahuas have a harder time in the cold. They tend to lose body heat faster than larger dogs. Deep snow can reach their chest and make them cold and wet, so they are more at risk in colder temperatures.”
Wrap up warm
“It may be cosy indoors, but your dog needs regular walks regardless of the weather,” states the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
“When out on walks it’s important to make sure your four-legged friends are wrapped up warm. Put a dog coat on them when you go out, especially if you have a fine-coated dog, such as a Greyhound or Staffie.”
The animal welfare charity also advises owners to inspect, clean and dry your dog’s paws after a wintry walk.
“This is especially important with long-haired dogs as they are prone to snow compacting between their toes and turning into ice balls which can prove very painful,” they state.
“If they are agreeable, you could trim the long hair between your dog’s toes to help prevent this.”
Salt and grit can also lodge between their toes, making cleaning an important part of their post-walk routine.
As we approach the shortest day of the year, low light is also a consideration.
The charity recommends attaching a small light to your dog’s collar so they can be seen when out on walks in reduced visibility.
Cold cars can also be a danger to dogs.
“Just as cars can become fatally hot in summer months, temperatures can drop very quickly in cold weather,” they add. “Always take your dog with you rather than leaving them in the car for any length of time.”
You should also avoid your dog swimming outdoors when the temperature is below 7ºC. Keep them on a lead if you think they might be tempted to jump in.
You should be aware of the possibility of hypothermia – if your dog shows signs such as shaking, lethargy, stiff muscles, low heart rate or dilated pupils then take them inside immediately, wrap them in a blanket, and call a vet if you are worried.
