Warwick Valley Humane Society has recommendations for pets in cold weather

WARWICK — It's been a milder winter than last year at this time but there may be many cold days and nights before it's over and the Warwick Valley Humane Society has some recommendations for those.
First of all, it is not only illegal to leave a dog outside in wintertime conditions without appropriate shelter, as detailed in New York's Agriculture and Markets Law, but it is common sense and neglect, which falls under the Cruelty to Animals statute.
It is a violation to fail to provide proper outdoor housing for any dog left outside for an indeterminate amount of time.
And if not corrected within 72 hours, another violation can be issued and/or the dog seized by court order.
"We just had a situation where an Akita, a very large and furry dog was tied outside and unable to reach the non-insulated shed which is his doghouse," said Suzyn Barron, president of the Warwick Valley Humane Society. "The shed has since been insulated and his ability to go in as he wishes rectified. Some animals prefer the cold but it is their choice to stand outside while it's snowing as long as there is an insulated doghouse to use if it so wishes."
She explained that although not specifically stated, if you own an animal other than a dog, neglect can be proven for insufficient housing as well.
Farm animals, horses and cats
Farm animals and horses deserve humane treatment, too, so providing a structure to allow the animals relief from the snow, wind and rain is the right thing to do.
Allowing farm animals to stand in mud to their ankles for days is detrimental to their health and causes great concern to those who witness this on a repeat basis.
"Cats also fall through the cracks in the law that demands that dogs have a dry insulated dog house, off the ground and large enough for the animal to easily turn around," said Barron, "But despite having fur, all animals need protection from freezing temperatures. The wild animals find shelter. But domestic animals have to rely on their caregivers, who, unfortunately, don't always do the humane thing. And all these animals can get frostbite."
Barron reported that people who have been feeding outdoor cats often call the shelter at this time of year because they feel bad that it's so cold outside.
"They can provide shelter for those cats," she said, "by buying a small insulated doghouse or making an insulated one. These outdoor cats are not going to adjust to being inside in a small cage. Feeding them is not enough and if you feel bad, do something about it."
Come in from the wind and rain
Barron also explained that rabbits in outdoor hutches need protection from below freezing temperatures. Their water may turn to ice and they need plenty of hay to keep warm in the inside portion of the hutch, which should also be insulated.
Horses, cows, goats and other domestic animals as well should have some form of shelter to get out of the wind and rain and snow.
Pet owners, she added, should also clean the pet's paws of salt exposure after being outside on the street and use a pet safe salt substitute at home.
All animals also require unfrozen water available to them at all times. Electric water bowls and buckets can be purchased online and at local home centers. And people need to outsmart their smart dogs who tip over their water.
"And," added Barron, "dogs should not be left in cars in the winter because cars become freezers causing hypothermia. Please leave your pets at home where they will be safe and warm. Also wipe paws and belly towel dry after walks. Never shave to the skin in winter. They need their fur to protect them. Feed more for extra calories, especially animals left outside. Hit your hood in case an animal is seeking shelter from the cold in or near the engine and clean up toxic spills such as antifreeze."
Essentials
And anyone who sees a domestic animal without proper shelter or unfrozen water should contact the Warwick Valley Humane Society at 986-2473 or on its confidential cruelty line at 987-7336.
- Roger Gavan