Just over a week into 2025, Lincoln Animal Control (LAC) has responded to six animal neglect calls regarding pets being left outside in the cold weather.
“For example, we had an officer last night that went out on a call that he found a dog outside cold weather. He was able to correct that issue and educate the owner about leaving animals outside in cold weather,” LAC Field Supervisor Officer Nick Finelli told KLIN News.
If you notice a dog outside that seems to be running loose or doesn’t have adequate shelter for an extended period of time, you can contact LAC at 402-441-7900. An officer will come out and make sure that pet isn’t left out in the elements, get them back to their owner, or at least somewhere they can be warm.
Finelli offered some advice for pet owners to keep their furry-friends safe as temperatures drop this season.
“Usually if it’s too cold for you to be outside, it’s too cold for your pets to be out there as well,” he said.
If you’re going to leave your dog outside in your yard, Finelli advises:
- Make sure they have access to a well insulated shelter — clean bedding which can’t freeze such as straw.
- Outdoor pet-houses must included four walls, a roof and a floor. Pet should be able to enter the house naturally.
- Pet-houses can’t be too big — or else it won’t contain the heat inside the shelter.
- Make sure pets are getting extra calories through their food.
- Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times outside. Heated water bowls are suggested so the water does not freeze — monitor those heated water bowls, as the surface of the water can still freeze.
Pet owners should also consider their pets paws. Finelli says if your pet walks on treated services, ice-melting chemicals can irritate and burn the pads of your pet’s feet. Don’t allow your pet to lick its feet after it has walked outdoors. Use a damp towel to wipe off feet and underside.