Police On Alert For Freezing Dogs In Fredericksburg

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — One of the more immutable untruths in the land of pets is that their natural coats of fur sufficiently protects them and keeps them warm during cold weather. While that might be somewhat true for mildly cold conditions, it certainly isn't the case for the type of cold weather we've been experiencing the past week or so.

And inasmuch that things will get even colder Friday and Saturday, with highs in the low 20s and lows in the single digits, consider that there already have been numerous recent reports across the country about pets freezing to death. They're chronicled in the blog of Wayne Pacelle, head of the Humane Society of the United States. Here are some reminders and tips from the Fredericksburg SPCA:

• Bring pets indoors: The safest place for pets during the winter months is inside! Cold/wet conditions outside can lead to illness, even death.

• Increase food and water intake: Pets burn extra calories and energy in the winter months. A well-hydrated and satiated pet has more energy! More energy means a better ability to cope with cold and keep warm!

• Avoid haircuts: Longer hair naturally provides more warmth.

• Dress for success: If it’s too cold for you, it’s likely too cold for your pet! There are a variety of coat, sweater, and bootie options to help keep pets warm.

• Check your car: Under a car hood, near the warm engine, is a favorite place for cats to seek refuge in the winter. Before you start your car, give the hood a good bang to make sure you don’t catch a cat unawares.

• Get a checkup: Take your pet for a winter trip to your veterinarian. Cold weather can exacerbate ailments like arthritis and other medical conditions can make it more difficult for your pet to regulate their body temperate.

There are no Virginia state laws about leaving pets outside in cold weather, as noted by Change.org. Fredericksburg Police spokeswoman Sarah Kirkpatrick said Friday the city's cruelty to animals ordinance could be used in extreme or obvious cases. She talked to patrol captain Brian Layton, who told her "it's very subjective. In nearby Anne Arundel County, dog owners face a maximum fine of $1,000 for violating the anti-animal cruelty ordinance.

The county's Animal Control agency says if the temperature or wind chills are expected to be at or below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, all dogs should be brought indoors to an area that will not reach below 33 degrees Fahrenheit. The animal emergency is in effect the same time as the freeze warning.

Image via Jyerk at Pixabay