The RSPCA has issued a warning to pet owners to keep their animals safe and warm as the cold weather sets in.

With the first snowfall of winter expected and snow and ice warnings in the North of England and Wales, the animal welfare charity is urging people to 'Join The Christmas Rescue' and help animals during the chilly months.

Lauren Bennett, RSPCA pet welfare expert and veterinary nurse, said: "As the weather turns cold and the frosty mornings arrive, spare a thought for our animal friends who may be feeling the chill this winter.

"We can all take simple steps to help keep our pets, livestock and wildlife safe this winter, and if we all do our bit, we can create a better world for every kind.

"Sadly, some animals are facing a really tough winter and the cold weather will make it even more perilous.

"To help the RSPCA rescue more of the most vulnerable animals from cruelty and neglect this winter, please Join The Christmas Rescue and donate today."

The RSPCA has provided a list of tips to help keep animals safe during the cold weather.

Pet owners should keep a close eye on outdoor pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs, and consider moving them inside if the temperature drops.

If they must stay outside, provide extra bedding and protect their home from adverse weather with insulating, ventilating covers.

Cats should have constant access to a warm, indoor area, and their bedding should be kept warm, dry, and away from draughts.

Antifreeze and rock salt can be poisonous to pets, so these should be kept out of reach.

If a pet is suspected to have ingested anything harmful, a vet should be consulted immediately.

For elderly or sickly dogs, a special coat or jumper can be bought to keep them warm during walks.

However, it should fit well and not restrict their ability to go to the toilet.

The first snow of winter has arrived   (Image: RSPCA)

Dogs should be kept away from frozen ponds, lakes, or rivers, and their paws should be checked for grit or snow after walks.

Pet birds in aviaries, coops, or runs should be provided with plenty of dry, warm bedding and their enclosures should be covered to keep out the wind and rain.

They will eat more to keep warm in cold conditions, so they should always have access to plenty of food and fresh water.

If you have a fish pond, check it every day to make sure the surface is not entirely frozen as poisonous gases can build up under the ice.

Don’t break the ice as this can harm the fish, but carefully place a saucepan of hot water on the surface to melt a hole in the ice.

Never tip boiling water straight onto the pond, as this can also harm or kill any fish living there.

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You should also never try to use antifreeze or salt to thaw frozen ponds or birdbaths.

Horses and livestock need extra care in the winter, such as shelter to escape bad weather, extra feed as grass can be sparse, and regular checks on water troughs to make sure there is no ice.

Birds can struggle to find food during the winter so, to help them stay strong over this period, people can leave out extra food for them.

Carefully check any wood or leaf piles for wild animals such as hedgehogs, frogs, and mice before lighting any fires or bonfires.

If you find wild animals in hibernation, make sure you leave them be.

The RSPCA does not advise keeping dogs outside in any weather.

Owners should make sure their dogs have a clean, comfortable, and dry sleeping area with a safe heat source.