01/14/2024
Please bring pets inside during this cold weather!
Extreme Cold Weather Conditions May Be Life Threatening for Pets
Expected severe weather conditions can be life threatening for outside pets. We are advising all pet owners to keep their pets inside or in a heated area during this extremely cold weather. Dogs that are outside require more calories in winter to help them warm and maintain their body fat. Even dogs that may be brought in at night require more food during extremely cold weather. Make sure that water bowls are not frozen- animals need access to fresh water at all times. Outside cats may seek warmth in a car engine so be sure to bang on the hood and honk the horn before starting the engine to give any sleeping animal a little time to get out.
Livestock should have access to hay at all times and should be supplied with extra feed. Also, check to make sure their water source is not frozen.
Appropriate shelter and care is critical for animals during severe winter weather conditions. Dog houses should have a solid floor, roof, and three sides. In order to minimize cold seepage from the ground, the house should be raised 3-4 inches off the ground. The door of the house should face away from prevailing winds and ideally would have a method of blocking air from entering the house. Bedding should consist of a thick layer of shavings or hay. Blankets and other materials retain cold and become damp and are not a good source of bedding for warmth.
If you have outside cats or are caring for feral cats, make sure they have access to shelter. Plastic storage containers (lid included) lined with styrofoam on the sides, top and bottom with a small opening cut on one end of the long side in order to provide a wind block will help provide safe shelter. The internet provides how to videos for housing for outdoor cats. Use hay for bedding and try to place the container in an area that provides blockage from wind and rain. Be sure to double available food during this time.
Mississippi law requires that adequate shelter be provided for dogs and cats. Statute 97-41-16, section 2(a) states that if a person deprives a dog or cat of food, water, or shelter and is convicted of such offense; they shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned not more than 6 months or both. If you see an animal that is in need of shelter or other care, contact your local animal control department through your police or sheriff's department. If you local community does not have animal control, speak with an officer at your local police or sheriff's department.
Please remember, if it is too cold for you, it is probably too cold for your pet, so keep your animals inside. It is the right thing to do. Providing adequate shelter for your animal is required by law.
If you pet is whining, shivering, seems weak or stops moving, bring it inside immediately because they are showing signs of hypothermia. If you suspect your pet has hypothermia, bring inside and contact your veterinarian immediately.