Cold weather animal safety to protect your pets
JACKSON, Tenn. — With temperatures expected to drop below zero, the animal services of Jackson say to keep in mind that domesticated animals are not designed to survive in those conditions. Animal service is asking for everyone to bring their animals inside if possible, and to make sure they have wind and waterproof shelters if not.
They say blankets will not work as bedding, because they get wet and then freeze, and each shelter needs to be packed with straw to insulate your pet from the bitter cold.
“We offer free straw to anybody in Madison County that maybe is in a financial situation where they can’t afford to buy it for themselves. We’ll give it to you. We have a very generous donor that’s paid for dozens of bails of straw to prevent any deaths,” said Whitney Owen. Owen is the director of animal services for the city of Jackson.
She says to keep in mind that even proper shelter and straw will not keep puppies, of any breed, from being in danger from the cold. Owen says all puppies should be brought in during the frigid temperatures.
If you know of a dog inside the city limits that is in danger due to the upcoming freezing temperatures, you’re urged to reach out to animal services so the owner can be helped to provide better care.
