COLUMBUS, Ohio — The bitter cold temperatures can be deadly for pets left out in the cold with little or no shelter.
Columbus Humane, which enforces animal cruelty laws, says its agents have extended their hours to help keep up with calls about suspected animal abuse.
Normally, agents would work a shift from noon to 5 p.m. shift. Now, they’re working until 7 p.m. as they see call volumes increase by 50%, according to the agency.
“This time of year, our call volume increases 50%. You will see dogs outside that either don’t have a dog house at all or have a dog house outside with no access to food or water,” said Brittany Thomas with Columbus Humane.
So what should you do if you have to keep a dog outside?
Columbus Humane suggests the following:
- A dry, insulated dog house with a flap door to protect against the wind.
- Place straw, not blankets, inside the dog house. Blankets absorb moisture and can make your pet freeze to death outside.
- A heated bowl inside the shelter or continual access to fresh, non-frozen water and access to food.
Columbus Humane says if you are taking your dog to the park in cold weather, don't have your pet be outside for an extended period. Pay attention to their paws; if dogs start to lift their legs, then that means they're too cold and need to be inside.
If you suspect a case of animal cruelty, you can call 1-614-777-PETS , submit a complaint electronically at www.columbushumane.org or email a complaint to dispatch@columbushumane.org.