ANIMAL lovers running the Battersea rescue centres at London and in Old Windsor are warning pet owners that weather events like Storm Christoph can contain surprise threats.

Steve Craddock, centre manager at Battersea said: "Cats and other small animals have a dangerous habit of crawling under car bonnets to enjoy the warmth from the engine so you should always tap the hood of a car before starting the engine. This will hopefully disturb any stowaways and encourage them to move on to a safer spot."

Advice from Battersea also extends to practical ways of keeping animals safe from the effects of icy weather.

Tips include using waterproof coats for short haired dogs and indoor games for pets not keen on their usual outdoor activities.

These can include a play tunnel, scratching post or ball game for cats and chew toys or food puzzles for dogs.

Battersea also advises owners to check their animals' paws for ice balls, salt or grit and watching for anti-freeze liquid that may have become accessible to an animals and which can be lethal if drunk.

For more advice on winter pet care, visit www.battersea.org.uk.