With all the extreme cold and harsh winter weather headed our way, Ann Puzey from the Vermilion County Animal Shelter says it must be remembered that a certain state law on cruel treatment of animals was updated in the last couple years; and if animal officers, who will be out and about, spot an animal in distress due to extreme cold and weather conditions, they can take that animal away and give it proper shelter.
So when this kind of weather is coming, Puzey says, please use common sense and get the animals inside or in a garage or shed. If they are an animal that must stay outside, have them in a little house or shelter, with four walls and a roof over their heads. And dry straw or hay to keep warm is highly recommended.
AUDIO: Well this weekend, with the wind chill and everything; everything’s going to jump down. Cats and dogs out there; body temperatures are going to plummet, and they’ll go into hypothermia. So we’re just trying to warn people to bring their animals in.
Puzey says there are creative ways to keep your dog or cat warm and safe while in your garage.
AUDIO: Heated water bowls, with extension cords; so they have access to solid water. If you want to put a heat lamp in the garage; make it secure so it doesn’t have a fire hazard. You can always make coolers; and insulate them, and cut a hole out for the cats.
Anyone who sees an animal in distress is encouraged to call the Vermilion County Animal Shelter at 217-431-2660.
