INDIANAPOLIS — With temperatures falling into the teens, Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS) wants to remind you about the dangers of leaving animals outside.
For one things, it's against the law to leave animals outside when temperatures fall below 20 degrees. You could face fines or jail time if you fail to properly care for your pets in cold weather.
If you are concerned about the safety of an animal in your neighborhood, contact the Mayor’s Action Center online at www.indy.gov/RequestIndy [indy.gov], or by using the Request Indy mobile app available for iPhone and Android.
Here are a few tips from IACS to keep your pets safe and warm :
- The best place for your pet is inside, but if kept outdoors, your pet must have access to dry shelter. A structure with space to move around will help shield animals from the cold winter air.
- Keep animals warm and safe by using straw in outdoor shelters. Blankets and towels draw moisture and don’t provide as much insulation and warmth as straw.
- Animals are just as susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite as people. Bring them inside as often as you can and, when nature calls, accompany them when they venture outdoors.
- Keep water available outside and check the dish every few hours to make sure it hasn’t frozen over. Consider investing in a heated water dish to avoid the hassle of a frozen water bowl.
If you need help caring for an outdoor dog during the colder weather, please contact Friends of Indianapolis Dogs Outside (FIDO) at 317-221-1314. They can assist in making sure your home is suitable and safe for your pet this winter season.
If you are caring for outdoor cats and need help, please contact Indy Neighborhood Cats at www.indyneighborhoodcats.org [urldefense.com]. They can assist with things such as outdoor winter shelters.
The Indianapolis shelter will reopen to the public by appointment on Saturday, December 26 at 10am. If you are interested in adopting an animal, visit www.indy.gov/activity/adopt-a-pet [urldefense.com] and follow the instructions.
