Humane Society
Encourages Owners to Bring Pets Indoors
January 23, 2013,
DAYTON, OHIO – As the temperature
continues to be in the single digits, it is even more important for pet owners
to ensure their animals stay safe in these harsh conditions.
“By following simple,
preventative measures, you can make sure your pets enjoy the winter weather,
while staying warm, safe and healthy,” said Brian Weltge, President and CEO of
the Humane Society of Greater Dayton.
To help make sure your
pets are safe, follow these simple rules.
Bring your pets
inside.
During the winter months, except for periods of exercise, it is important to
keep your pets indoors. Regardless of the season, short-haired, young or old
dogs and all types of cats should never be left outside without supervision.
During walks, consider a sweater or coat for your short-haired dog to help keep
it warm.
Provide proper shelter.
If your
dog must be outside, provide it with a well-equipped shelter. If your dog is an
outdoor dog, he or she must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is
large enough to allow the dog to turn around, sit and lie down comfortably, but
small enough to hold in his or her body heat. The floor should be raised a few
inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house should
be turned to face away from the wind and the doorway should be covered with
waterproof burlap or heavy plastic. If you are wondering if your shelter is
adequate, please call the Humane Society at (937) 268-PETS (7387) and we can
have our humane agent check your home and can provide resources to keep your
animals safe.
Check food and water
more.
Pets that spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because
keeping warm depletes their energy. Routinely check your pet’s water dish to
make certain the water is fresh and not frozen. Use plastic food and water bowls
rather than metal. With the temperature so low, your pet’s tongue can stick and
freeze to metal. Most You can also purchase water dishes that can stay heated
to ensure water doesn’t freeze
Check your
car.
Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small wildlife, which may crawl up
under the hood. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, bang your car’s hood to
scare them away before you start your engine.
Keep paws free of
salt.
Salt and other winter chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads
of your pet’s feet. Wipe the feet with a damp towel before your pet licks them
and irritates his or her mouth.
Hide the
antifreeze. Antifreeze is a deadly
poison, but it has a sweet taste that attracts animals. Wipe up spills and store
antifreeze (and all household chemicals) where it cannot be accessed by your
pets. If your pet does consume antifreeze, take him or her to the vet
immediately.
The Humane Society of
Greater Dayton is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building loving
relationships between people and pets. Founded 111 years ago, it is the largest
and most established “no-kill” animal welfare agency in the area. It focuses on
pet adoptions, eliminating pet overpopulation, providing education and ensuring
the humane treatment of animals. For more information about the Humane Society
of Greater Dayton, call (937) 268-PETS (7387) or visit www.hsdayton.org.
