MANSFIELD — Dave Jordan has seen the terrible effects of exposure and the Richland County dog warden had some advice for pet owners.
“Bring your dogs inside, especially if the wind-chill temperature is minus-24 like it was (Thursday) morning,” Jordan said from his office Thursday afternoon. “No dog should be left outside in conditions like those.
“We’ve been on calls where dogs have been left outside in extreme cold and the animal has frozen to the ground.”
The first blast of winter scoured north central Ohio earlier this week, canceling schools and chasing all but the most hearty winter enthusiasts indoors. More dangerous cold is expected Friday and Saturday before temperatures warm Sunday.
“Pets should really be taken inside when it’s this cold out,” local veterinarian Cheryl Becker said. “Pets that spend a lot of time outdoors need more food when it’s cold out because it takes more energy to stay warm. Owners also should make sure water isn’t frozen.”
Dog shelters should be elevated and extra insulation should be added.
“The door should be covered and the shelter should be positioned so that the door is facing away from the prevailing wind,” Becker said.
Jordan said his office tries to prevent negligence before it can happen. Potential dog owners must fill out a three-page adoption application.
“One of the questions is about where the dog will be housed and if the applicant indicates the dog will be kept outside, the dog won’t be adopted,” Jordan said. “We want these dogs to be a part of the family.”
