An animal shelter in the Poconos is reminding pet owners about the dangers of leaving animals out in the cold this time of year.
MONROE COUNTY, Pa. — The snowflakes are flying, but that doesn't stop the daily care at Camp Papillion Animal Shelter in Monroe County. Dogs like Ginger spend some time outside, but not too much time.
Staff say there are some things to remember when it gets cold.
“Be aware of how cold it is. If it is too for you, nine times out of ten, it is too cold for them,” said Felicia Katz, vice president of Camp Papillion A.
Katz says that as temperatures in our area drop below freezing, limiting animals' time in the elements to about 10 to 15 minutes is best.
“Some dogs experience the cold weather a lot quicker than others; huskies love the cold, but smaller dogs and even pit bulls don't tend for the cold weather,” explained Katz.
As for the shelter pets, during the winter months, staff shorten walks to limit time in the cold. Plus, there are other things to remember after time out in the snow.
“Bedding is changed frequently because obviously now she'll get her bedding wet, so that will be changed out because we don't want them sleeping in wet bedding. So that is a challenge always having clean bedding,” said board member Rita LoDuca.
In Pennsylvania, under Libre's Law, when temperatures fall below 32 degrees, dogs can not be tethered outside for more than 30 minutes. Katz says it can quickly cause harm to animals if left unattended.
“Frozen paws are common, especially when we get down to single temps. And really watch what kind of salt you use because salt can burn the pads on the dog's paws, so you always want to use pet-safe salt,” said Katz.
Staff at Camp Papillon advises that if you are concerned about a pet left in the cold for extended periods, you should report it to the state police.
