January newsletter!
- The Woodbridge Vets
- Jan 23
- 3 min read
Hello and welcome to our first newsletter of 2026 from everyone here
at The Woodbridge Vets. We hope you had a lovely Christmas and New Year and that your pets enjoyed the festive season just as much as you did. Whether it was extra treats, cosy naps by the fire, or winter walks around Suffolk countryside, the Christmas break is a special time for our four-legged family members too.
As we begin a new year, it’s the perfect opportunity to focus on your pet’s health and wellbeing. Regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, daily exercise, and a balanced diet all play an important role in helping your pet live a long, happy, and comfortable life. Preventative care allows us to spot potential issues early, often before they become more serious.
January is an ideal time to book a routine health check, review parasite prevention, check on their annual booster and set achievable health goals for the year ahead. Our friendly veterinary and nursing teams are always happy to offer advice tailored to your pet’s individual needs, whether they’re a lively puppy, a senior cat, or anything in between.
We look forward to supporting you and your pets throughout 2026.
Let’s make this year a positive and healthy one for the pets of Woodbridge and the surrounding areas.
Cold weather awareness
January in the UK can be cold, wet, and occasionally icy, as we’ve all noticed recently. While winter weather is part of everyday life, it can create extra challenges when it comes to keeping our pets safe, comfortable,and healthy.
Cold weather can affect your pet’s health in a variety of ways, especially if they’re not properly protected. As we step into January, here are some essential tips to help ensure your pet stays comfortable, safe, and healthy during the colder months: In the UK, icy pavements, salt, and chemicals used for de-icing roads can be hard on your pet’s paws. The cold can cause paw pads to crack and become sore, while salt can irritate the skin, causing discomfort and even injury.
How to protect your pet’s paws:
Paw balms and waxes: These create a barrier to protect paw pads from salt and ice. Look for pet-specific balms that help moisturize and protect.
Regular cleaning: After walks, clean your pet’s paws thoroughly to remove any salt, dirt, or chemicals. This helps prevent irritation and damage.
Pets, especially short-haired breeds, are more susceptible to cold weather. While your pet may love the outdoors, prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions can lead to hypothermia and other health issues.
How to keep your pet warm:
Dog coats and sweaters: For smaller or short-haired dogs, consider a coat or sweater to keep them warm. Look for waterproof options to keep them dry during wet walks.
Avoid prolonged outdoor exposure: While some pets love the cold, be mindful of how long they spend outside. Shorter walks and more indoor playtime can help keep them comfortable.
Drying off after walks: If your dog gets wet during a walk, dry them off with a towel as soon as you return home. Keeping your pet dry helps prevent the chill from setting in.
Older pets are particularly vulnerable to cold weather. Arthritis can worsen in cold and damp conditions, making it harder for them to get around. Ensure your senior pets are extra comfortable during the winter months.
Tips for senior pet care in cold weather:
Warm bedding: Provide extra blankets or a heated pet bed to help soothe sore joints and keep your pet comfortable.
Manage arthritis: If your senior pet suffers from arthritis, ask your vet about pain relief options, including joint supplements or medication to ease discomfort.
Limit outdoor time: While short walks are still essential for senior pets, try to keep them indoors more and offer mental stimulation through interactive toys.
Snowy fun from our patients
A few days ago, Suffolk was blanketed in beautiful snow, creating the perfect opportunity for fun. We hope everyone, both our clients and patients, made the most of the snowfall while staying safe and cozy. Our furry patients seemed to have an absolute blast in the snow, and we’ve been lucky enough to receive a few adorable photos from their owners.
Of course, we also want to remind all pet owners to take extra care in these conditions - keeping paws warm, staying mindful of icy patches, and making sure your furry friends don’t overdo it in the cold.
Thank you to everyone who shared their snowy snapshots with us - it’s so lovely to see our patients enjoying the season.
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