How to Tell if Your Pet is Feeling the Cold

Admin Team

As the chilly winds and frosty mornings of winter settle in, it's important to remember that our furry friends need extra care to stay warm and comfortable. Just like humans, pets can feel the cold too, and it's our responsibility as pet owners to ensure their well-being during the colder months. But how can you tell if your pet is feeling the cold? We've put together some helpful signs and tips to help you keep your beloved companions snug and cosy.





Watch for Shivering


Shivering is one of the most obvious signs that your pet is feeling cold. Just like us, animals shiver to generate heat and keep warm. If you notice your pet trembling or shivering, it's a clear indication that they need some extra warmth.



Check for Cold Paws and Ears


When your pet's paws and ears are cold to the touch, it's a sign that they may be feeling the cold. Gently touch their paws and ears, and if they feel colder than usual, it's time to take action.



Monitor Behaviour Changes


Pets that are feeling the cold might exhibit changes in their behaviour. They may become more lethargic, seek out warm spots in the house, or curl up tightly to conserve body heat. Keep an eye out for any unusual behaviour that could indicate discomfort caused by the cold.



Observe Body Posture


Pay attention to your pet's body language. If they are hunched or tucked in, trying to minimise their body surface area, it's a sign that they're trying to stay warm. They may also seek out blankets, beds, or other warm places to curl up.

Remember, your pet's comfort and well-being should always be a priority. By understanding the signs and taking proactive measures to keep them warm, you can ensure that your furry friends stay cosy and happy throughout the winter season.

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Important YVV Update

By Admin Team • February 17, 2026
Sadly, we have had some staff changes recently at Yass Valley Veterinary. After 3 years, Dr Issy Card has taken a small animal position in Canberra. Our recently married Dr Anne Cusack is relocating to Wagga for her husband’s work, and Dr Natalie Flew is also leaving us to work in an emergency afterhours clinic in Canberra with more suitable hours for her new family. We will all miss these three amiable, dedicated and competent veterinarians and wish them well in their future pursuits. Dr Stuart Williams, after almost 33 years at Yass Valley Veterinary (15 years as a partner with Dr Peter Gibbs and 15 years as sole principal), is resigning from his full-time position at the end of February. He is looking forward to having a break away from afterhours on call and managing a large staff across two hospitals. Working as a volunteer veterinarian in Australia and overseas, travelling with his wife Cath and spending some much needed time at home and in the garden, is on the agenda for Stuart in the short term. Dr Tamara Butler, who has been with the business for 17 years, will be promoted to the Lead Vet role when Stuart resigns. Dr Nicole McKenzie will take on the Tamara’s Veterinary Manager role, while Ms Carrie Luckie will retain the Practice Manager role. We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and care that each of our departing veterinarians has given to our clients and patients, and their departures will mean a temporary change to our service availability. Be assured that we are actively and enthusiastically recruiting veterinarians to join our team. We’d like to introduce Dr Josh Tannen, a small animal veterinarian & surgeon, who will be with us until April. This experienced and easy-going locum will be very welcome by the team. However, in the short term, we will be operating with a smaller team, so there may be occasions where we are unable to provide the full range of services that are currently provided. What does this mean for you? • At times, we may need to rotate Saturday clinic closures. • There will be evenings or weekends when we do not have an after-hours veterinarian available. We will always do our best to keep you informed. Any changes to opening hours or services will be communicated via our social media pages and through notifications on the Yass Vet App. As always, if you require after-hours assistance when a veterinarian is not available, please call us on 6226 4444. Your call will be answered by a team of qualified nurses who will triage your situation and direct you to the closest appropriate emergency hospital if needed. We truly appreciate your understanding, patience, and ongoing support during this period of transition. Our commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care for your animals remains at the heart of everything we do.