CLEVELAND — Editor's note: the video in the player above is from a story published on January 19, 2021.
As winter sets in and cold temperatures strike the northern part of the country, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) are reminding pet owners to keep companion animals safe from the cold weather and winter storms.
These steps can go a long way to ensure a pet's safety, the group says.
First, PETA says pet-owners need to bring their animals indoors. Companion animals should live inside. The group says that outside pets often go without food, water and veterinary care. Pets living outside frequently suffer from frostbite and can die due to exposure.
Secondly, it may sound silly, but put a coat and booties on your animal. The booties will protect your dog's paws from frozen surfaces. Owners should also make sure that the animal is on a secure harness so that you can ensure the dog does not get loose. Also, keep walks short in very cold weather.
Lastly, remember the birds. During heavy snow and brutally cold temperatures, try to provide birds and other wildlife with drinking water in a nonmetal bowl and breaking the ice a few times a day.
PETA asks anyone who sees a companion animal kept chained or penned outside 24/7 without adequate shelter to call local law enforcement.
Anyone who leaves a pet outside in brutal weather conditions may be prosecuted.
