OUTSIDE ANIMALS NEED SHELTER FROM COLD

Wet, cold weather has plagued Jonesboro and surrounding areas for several weeks now and this greatly affects the pets and animals in our lives. From Dec. 24 thru Jan. 3rd NAFA has provided 7 dog houses, 28 pallets and 11 bales of stray/hay to individuals whose dogs (or cats) must live outdoors. NAFA has also removed or had surrendered to them 26 dogs/puppies and 17 cats/kittens directly as a result of weather conditions. Sadly, there have been several occasions where we were called too late and animals exposed to the elements were already dead. Friday, NAFA was contacted by the Sheriff’s department and arrive on scene to find a mother dog, nine puppies and one cat dead – all frozen. And meteorologists are calling for temperatures in the single digits later this week.

While NAFA strongly encourages pet owners to bring their pets in to their garages, utility rooms, spare bedrooms, etc., some dog owners are unable or unwilling to bring their pets indoor during drastically cold and wet weather. Here are some tips for helping your pets when they are outdoors (even if it is only for a short period of time).


TIPS:

1) Shelter is a must. Even if your dog is going to spent only 15 minutes outside, they must have adequate warm shelter.

2) Shelter must keep your dog dry and warm. It must have a sturdy room and a floor. It can not be full of water.

3) Dog house size is very important. If the house is too small, it will be uncomfortable and your dog won't want to stay in it. If the house is too large, your dog will not be able to retain body heat in order to stay warm. Also, dogs feel more secure in a snug-fitting abode. (See sizing tips below)

4) Elevate the dog house - Elevate the dog house bottom so that it does not get submerged in snow, water or ice. Use a sturdy foundation or pallet made of wood or plastic to elevate the platform. This will keep the dog warm and the circulation of air underneath will help.

5) Install a Sturdy Door - A thick door that protects the dog from the cold is essential. It must also provide the dog easy access to his shelter. Use a thick carpet to increase the thickness of the door, or install a new door that is sturdy and heavy enough to resist the wind. The dog house door should be three fourths (3/4) of the dog's shoulder to ground measurement. The door height does not need to be as tall as the dog or larger either. The dog will lower its head when entering the dog house.

6) Keep the Dog House in a Sunny Wind-free Location - Ensue that the dog house is located away from the direction of the wind. Keep the dog house in a spot where it will receive maximum sunlight throughout the day.

7) Provide a Thick Straw Bed - Avoid using materials such as old carpets, blankets or comforters to provide a soft bed for your dog. This is because the dog will track in snow every time he enters the dog house. Such materials will absorb the wetness and soon become ice cold. Far from providing a comfortable bed, an icy comforter can contribute to hypothermia.

8) Buy Heated Dishes or check food and water every couple of hours – Remember your dog needs fresh water for its body to regulate its body temperature - In the winter, water and food can freeze quickly, making it inedible for the dog. If the dog consumes frozen food, he may fall sick too. Buy heated dishes that will keep the food and water somewhat warm. Make sure the dog is well fed and gets as much exercise as is possible.

9) Heater or Heat Lamp – If you are going to invest in a small heater or heat lamp for the dog house, ensure that it is installed safely and that the dog is a safe distance away from the appliance. Follow all safety requirements.

10) Create a Partition - If the dog house is large and spacious, it will remain cold throughout the winter. Add a wooden or plastic partition in the dog house, so that each division is just large enough for the dog to stand and turn around. This will trap more heat in the structure and keep the dog warm.

11) Sizing Tips - Size of Sleeping Area Floor Space - With each inch of your dog's height (measured from top of shoulder to ground) allow 36 square inches of floor space. For example, a dog 12 inches tall needs 432 square inches of floor space, or a floor area of 16" by 27" = 432 square inches. Height of Sleeping Area - Add 1 or 2 inches to your dog's measurement when in a sitting position (from top of head to ground), in order to determine the ceiling height. For example, a dog 12 inches tall will have a sitting height of about 14 inches and the doghouse ceiling should be 15 or 16 inches high. Overall Doghouse Dimensions - For example, a Dalmatian (20" tall, sitting height 23") doghouse should measure: sleeping area - 20"x36"; hall area - 12"x20"; ceiling height - 25"; doorways - 10"square; roof - 36"x72".

If you are not able to provide a dog house for your dog, if you need assistance getting it off the ground, or if you need straw for warmth, please contact NAFA – 870-932-1955.
If you are unable to care for your pet contact NAFA and we will help you find another home for your pet. Also, if you suspect that an animal is neglected or abuse, contact NAFA and we will make a welfare visit.

THANKS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO LEARN HOW TO MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR FRIEND MORE COMFORTABLE INDOORS,

TUT.

To add an animal to your family is not a right ... it's a PRIVILEGE. To care for our animals is not a choice... it's a RESPONSIBILITY.