1. State Law requires adequate shelter for animals.
2. Animals can freeze to death in winter months.
3. If an animal is to be kept outside, adequate preparation for the cold months is essential.
4. Animals require extra food during the winter months; the additional calories are used to produce warmth.
5. Doghouses should just be large enough for the dog to lie down and have a little head room when sitting up but no larger. The dog’s heat will help keep the doghouse warm.
6. Doghouses must be insulated, waterproof and draft free preferably with the entrance facing the south.
7. A flap should be hung over the door of the doghouse.
8. Fresh straw or hay must placed inside the doghouse when the temperature is 50 degrees or colder.
9. Bedding material must remain dry at all times.
10. Blankets are not recommended they will retain moisture.
11. Animals are to be protected from wind, rain and snow.
12. When temperatures are freezing water bowls must be checked at least twice a day, frozen water must be replaced. Don’t just break the ice. Cold water will bring the animals body temperature down. Heated water bowls are recommended.
13. Always take the animals well being into consideration.
14. On extremely bitter evenings it is advisable to bring any animal inside.
Animal Control Regulations: 6.10.01 Cruelty to Animals
Animal Welfare is a human responsibility that encompasses all aspects of animal well being, including proper housing and humane handling.