With the arrival of spring and warmer temperatures in Lithuania, pets are at increased risk due to melting ice on lakes and rivers. Experts warn that taking pets onto thawing ice poses significant dangers, as it may appear stable but is actually very fragile. Beatrice Vaitiekūnaitė, head of the NGO "Animal Welfare Initiatives," emphasizes the importance of keeping pets on leashes and avoiding icy surfaces altogether, even if the ice looks thick enough to support weight.

In cases where a pet falls through the ice, the risk of drowning and hypothermia is high. Owners have a very limited time to rescue their animals, as they can quickly lose strength and become unable to escape the icy water. This situation puts both the pet and the owner in danger, as attempting a rescue without proper knowledge and skills can lead to accidents. The article highlights the need for responsible pet ownership during the changing seasons.

To mitigate these dangers, the article advises pet owners to be vigilant and keep their pets away from ice, particularly on melting bodies of water. It advocates for heightened awareness about potential risks and reinforces the importance of being prepared during seasons of transition to ensure the safety of both pets and their owners.