Toledo Humane Society offers help for pet owners during cold and snow

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – While snow and extreme cold can be dangerous for all of us, it’s no different when it comes to your pets. A local rescue organization is offering extra help during this storm to help people protect their pets. The head of the Toledo Humane Society‘s advice on pets and the cold is simple.

“There is absolutely no excuse for an animal to be outside. Bring them in and put them in a garage or in the basement,” says Dr. Anna Brown, a veterinarian at the shelter. She says that hypothermia and frostbite can set in quickly and cause lasting damage or even death.”The damage happens quickly, but it can take a week or more for the tissue to die and then end up with open sores.” It’s a horrible thing to experience.”

Dr. Brown says you also need to change up your routine when it comes to taking your pets out. “If your pet has to go out, accompany it. If you’re cold, they’re cold. Don’t ignore them or get distracted, because even a little time can have permanent consequences for them.

THS has pet food and crates available for anyone who needs it. Crates help bring an outdoor pet indoors a little easier. “We have crates that people can use if they have dogs that aren’t used to being indoors or aren’t housebroken.”

And if you leave your pets outside in those conditions, Heaven says there are potential consequences. “If you don’t provide food, water and shelter for animals outdoors, it’s against state law.”

Heaven says cruelty investigators will be available to handle all calls during the storm and staff members will be at the shelter. “Essential staff will be here. We will not be open to the public, but staff will be there to clean up and ensure animals are fed, watered and taken to the toilet.

Dr. Brown’s simple statement sums it up best when it comes to your pets. “If you want to have them, you have to watch them.”

If you see an animal left outside, call the THS cruelty hotline or your local police department. If you need a crate or food, you can drop by or call the shelter.

The shelter is on Illinois Avenue in Maumee. The number is (419) 891-0705. The Toledo Humane Society will be closed to the public Thursday, but is expected to reopen Friday.

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