Vet issues 4pm warning for pet owners to 'stay alert' – The Mirror

A veterinary surgeon has issued a warning to pet owners. With it becoming much darker as we head into winter, people have been warned that they will need to keep an extra eye on their pets – and they may need to buy a few safety items to help.
It can get nearly pitch black at around 4pm now, and because of this, people taking their dogs out for a walk, or those with outdoor cats, have been warned to be careful when they are near a road. The fresh reminder comes during Road Safety Week, which started on November 17.
Roads can be a dangerous place for pets, and approximately 80,000 dogs and 200,000 cats are killed by vehicles each year, according to the Blue Cross. With this in mind, veterinary experts are highlighting the dangers that early nightfall brings, particularly for cats and dogs who may be difficult for drivers to see.
Dr Sarah Page-Jones, Head Veterinary Surgeon at Pet Drugs Online, said: “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. No matter how well-behaved your pet is, drivers can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to pay attention and stay alert.”
Dog owners are also urged to be extra careful on late-afternoon and evening walks. The vet stressed: "When walking your dog near roads, always keep them on a short, sturdy lead. Even if you’re dog has excellent recall, it’s not worth putting them at any risk. Loud traffic and sudden noises can easily spook animals, and fast-moving cars pose a constant threat.
