Cold Weather is a Reminder to Keep Pets Warm

* If you know anyone who keeps pets outdoors, persuade them to bring them inside. Low temperatures, winds and precipitation can lead to illness and death. In addition, water bowls freeze in cold weather.

 

* Remember, dogs are domesticated animals who should live indoors with their people. Living outside in a dog house is a sad life, especially in cold, hot and wet weather.

 

* Please keep cats inside. Felines who spend time outside can freeze, or get lost or injured.

 

* Dog houses and the law: Local laws typically require that if dogs are kept outdoors, the owner must supply the dog with “proper” shelter from the weather, which includes a dog house big enough to stand up in and to permit posture positions that allow the dog to stretch out and stand up, but must not be oversized, since the dog needs to retain body heat; a wind flap on the dog house door; nonporous bedding such as straw; and, access to fresh, unfrozen water.

 

* If you see a dog in need of a caring friend, become that dog’s advocate. Speak with the owner, and if that fails to improve the situation, contact your local SPCA, humane society of animal control office. 

For more tips on keeping pets warm click here.