
The extreme weather that hits during the winter can be grueling, as temperatures plummetย and cold rain and snow fall to the frozen ground. While we can bundle up inside underneath heated blankets sipping hot cocoa, some pets are sadlyย left to fend for themselves.That's why the city of Pittsburgh is considering passing new laws to protect pooches during awful weather conditions. The City Council will vote on a pair of regulations that would prevent tethering dogs outside in the extreme heat or cold.
Keeping canines safe from the weatherThe ordinances were presented by Councilwoman Darlene Harris following reports last winter of a dog being left out on a second-story deck during a deep freeze. In addition to tethering, she discussed
making it unlawful for people to leave pooches unattended while outside for longer than a half-hour if the temperature is below 32 degrees or above 90 degrees, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported."It's very sad when people abuse animals," Harris said, quoted by the source. "They're here for us to love and take care of."Under the proposal, violations would incur a $500 fineย and any costs associated with shelters and court proceedings. When it comes to tethering dogs, owners must use a non-choke collar that's attached by "swivel anchors, latches or similar devices" that prevent pooches from getting tangled up in their leashes.The City Council has yet to review the ordinances and hasn't commented on the proposal.
Protecting your pet in the winterBecause winter weather is hard on everyone, owners need to take extra care with their pets under extreme conditions. This is especially true for people with
outdoor dogs and cats. To protect the entire family from the cold and keep everyone safe, the American Red Cross offered
several reminders for pet owners during the winter:
- During extreme cold, bring your pets inside or provide them with warm, sheltered areas.
- Make sure they have access to non-frozen drinking water.
- Clear out any snow, ice or other obstacles that may prevent access to food and water outside.
- Provide them with draft-free enclosures that are large enough for sitting and lying down, but also small enough to allow them to hold in their body heat.
- Wipe off paws with a damp towel to remove any salt before they lick their paws and irritate their mouths.
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