Colder temperatures can be dangerous for pets

Friday morning temperatures were the coldest so far this season and broke some freezing records. With that cold weather comes an added danger for pets when they’re outside.

Animal control officers recommend owners keep a close eye on pets when they send them outside during the day.

“Be sure that your doghouse is insulated and has the proper bedding whether that be dry straw or dry blankets,” said Jefferson City Animal Control supervisor Karen Jennings. “Make sure that your water bowls don’t freeze over. You need to go out there several times and make sure that they have fresh water.”

In February, Jefferson City enacted a new ordinance that states Animal Control officers have the authority to seize any animals within the city limits that are not being cared for properly during cold weather advisory times. So far, Jennings said they have not had to seize any pets from their owners as a result of the ordinance but she thinks having the ordinance in place is a huge help.

“Say somebody’s out on vacation and they didn’t realize this winter storm was going to come through and the dog is outside,” she said. “We are able to take that dog and get it to the shelter where it’s going to be warm, fed and dry. Even if people don’t want to comply with us.”

Columbia does not have a specific ordinance that deals with complaints surrounding animals in colder or warmer weather, but it already does have a law called exigent circumstances. If an officer feels that they don’t have time to get a search warrant, they can remove the animal under exigent circumstances for the animal’s safety.

Jennings said most people who are not in compliance with animal control ordinances the first time are usually good about fixing their behavior and making sure the animal is then taken care of. She said neighbors are also extremely helpful.

“Neighbors have come together to help an animal whether its providing a dog house, providing straw,” she said. “I know somebody that has delivered food to a neighbor.”

Some longer-haired animals like being out in cold temperatures for a short time while some of the short-haired dogs or cats won’t last long. In either case, though, Jennings said long periods of time outside aren’t good for any breed.

If you see an animal that you suspect might not be taken care of properly, you can call Animal Control in Jefferson City at (573) 634-6429 and Columbia at (573) 449-1888.