The recent extreme cold snaps have been difficult of vehicles, and our bodies.
As we bundle up to protect ourselves from the elements, some are forgetting another important step. Forgetting your pets out in the cold isn't just dangerous, it's a crime.
Mike Nelson has three dogs.
"The little one is a rabbit dog, the other two are pheasant dogs," Nelson said.
But even trained for the elements of nature, Nelson knows his pups aren't much of a match for this cold. He had them out earlier this week and on Thursday he'll keep them sheltered and warm.
"On concrete, it'll suck the heat right out of their feet and they get darn cold quick," Nelson said.
"Animals can easily die quickly, not only from the temperatures outside, but their waters will freeze and they won't have access to that and can get dehydrated pretty quickly," Animal Control Officer Missy John said.
John says officers have had to remove animals from vehicles and backyards in recent weeks because people have left them there, thinking it's enough protection. In that situation, officers step in.
"We do and it's a criminal offense. People will call us if they're concerned for animals and you can receive a citation for leaving your animals and we can also remove them we feel they're in danger," John said.
John says even the heartiest of dogs need appropriate shelter in this kind of weather. Breeds that you might think can tough this out because of their genetics also face danger in these cold conditions.
"That's not necessarily the case anymore. Dogs are so domesticated that they need an actual nice, protected shelter. A small plastic or metal crate is not going to suffice. It needs to be insulated or better yet, let them have access to the house or garage on days like today," John said.
All of which are good steps to take to protect your family's four-legged friends.
"It sure is good to have animal control out there keeping an eye on things and making sure our pets are safe," Nelson said.
Officer John also suggests those with pets who spend time outdoors have access to an electric water bowl. Those keep the bowl heated so the water doesn't freeze. However she adds that if you own one of those you need to check it often to ensure its still working.
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