Following heavy snowfall and extreme drops in temperature, students from the Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) Faculty of Veterinary Medicine took action to help stray animals struggling to find food by placing food at designated points within Kurupelit Campus.

Research Assistant Dr. Zeynep Nurselin Kot, from the Department of Internal Medicine, shared important insights on properly feeding and supporting animals during winter months.

"One of the Biggest Risks for Stray Animals is Hunger"

Highlighting that hunger poses a significant threat to stray animals, particularly in cold weather when their energy needs increase, Dr. Kot emphasized the importance of proper feeding practices and provided useful recommendations.

"We Support the Care and Nutrition of Animals as the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine"

Dr. Kot noted that OMU campuses have a large animal population and that the Veterinary Faculty is actively involved in their care and nutrition.

"As the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, we support the care and feeding of animals. Within this scope, we have established feeding areas at specific points across the campus, and we monitor the food and water levels daily. Additionally, we have placed cat shelters to protect them from other animals and harsh weather conditions, ensuring they remain unaffected by the cold."

"Food and Water Containers Must Be Durable and Sheltered"

Emphasizing the importance of not forgetting stray animals during harsh winter conditions, Dr. Kot added:

"To ensure that stray animals continue to find food, it is essential to place food and water in sheltered areas. Rain, snow, and wind can cause food to become damp and moldy, so special care must be taken. Therefore, using durable and protected food and water containers is crucial."

She explained that pets typically do not face nutritional deficiencies as they live in controlled environments. However, dogs need to go outside for their toilet needs, and in extreme weather conditions, their exercise should be adjusted to shorter but more frequent walks. Additionally, protective clothing for dogs has become more common in recent years.

"Hunger is One of the Biggest Risks for Stray Animals"

Dr. Kot reiterated that finding food becomes extremely difficult for stray animals in cold weather:

"During winter, stray animals struggle to find food, making it essential to regularly provide food and water in sheltered areas. In freezing temperatures, necessary precautions should be taken to prevent water from freezing.

Let’s not forget that they share the same nature with us and need our support to survive."