With the extreme cold hitting the area once again, it’s no wonder the Humane Society Serving Crawford County has been handling numerous calls concerning outdoor animals. The Humane Society recently contacted Dr. John Shuler of Horizon Animal Hospital, the Ohio Farm Bureau and several other large and small animal practitioners for cold weather guidelines when it comes to pets and livestock.
“We understand that not everyone agrees that pets and livestock should be out in the frigid temperatures but if done properly they are more than able to (be) kept safe and warm,” Humane Society Director Victoria Carmean said.
The following are suggested guidelines for outdoor animals:
• As long as livestock can get out of the wind, are not wet, have access to shelter and are accustomed to being out, they will be fine.
• Outdoor dogs that are accustomed to being out, have appropriate shelter, can get out of the wind, are not wet, and are properly bedded will be fine. These dogs must have water and an extra ration of feed to keep warm.
The Humane Society reminds everyone that it is not illegal to keep animals outside. As the cold weather hits once again, the Humane Society has been educating pet owners on proper cold weather care according to these guidelines. They have also been supplying straw as needed.
If there are any concerns, call the shelter at 419-562-9149.