Charges, $1K Fine For Owners Who Leave Pets Outdoors In Cold

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Pet owners who don't keep their animals warm this week as low temperatures drop into the 20s can face a fine of up to $1,000, say Anne Arundel County officials. The National Weather Service predicts wind chill temperatures below 20 degrees throughout the overnight hours, so county law says pets must get out of the cold or fines can be imposed, and in some cases owners may be criminally charged with animal neglect.

Authorities have issued a Severe Weather Animal Alert, will remain in effect through Friday. "Criminal prosecution can occur for anyone for fails to provide proper protections for their pets. We encourage pet owners to keep pets inside during these extremely low temperatures," says Anne Arundel County Animal Control.

In accordance with the law, when the county executive declares a severe weather animal emergency, dogs left outside unattended must be provided with:

• Fresh clean drinkable non-frozen water at all times, typically from a heated or insulated water bowl.
• Dog flaps/doors must be affixed to dog houses (and dogs must be trained/able to use the house with. the flap)
• Dog house entrances must be oriented away from prevailing winds
• Dog houses must be elevated off the ground (at least 2 inches and above any accumulated precipitation)
• Dog houses must have abundant dry bedding or a dry resting board available inside.
• Dog houses must protect an animal against the weather. A dog house, shed, garage or other large area that has temperatures that reach below 33 degrees Fahrenheit inside is too large to allow a dog to maintain adequate body temperature to sustain life will be considered insufficient.

Failure to comply with these requirements may result in a civil citation with fines ranging from $125 to $1,000, removal of the animal, and/or criminal prosecution depending on the conditions found, such as abuse or neglect of an animal by leaving dogs outside and unattended by use of restraints.

If you see an animal left outside that appears to be in danger, call Animal Control immediately at (410) 222-8900.

SEE ALSO: Icy Mix Coming As Winter Weather Advisory Issued For Maryland

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