ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM)— Colder weather is here in the Twin Tiers, and local animal experts are reminding pet owners not to forget their pets while trying to stay warm themselves.
“The bottom line is if it’s too cold for you to be outside for very long, it’s too cold for your animals to be outside very long,” said Michael Hopkins, the Executive Director at Finger Lakes SPCA.
For dog owners, walks can still be part of their pet’s routine, but experts suggest making them shorter and dressing pets appropriately.
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“If you do go for walks, maybe make it shorter walks, always have a coat or sweater on them if you do have like the little booties for their feet, that’s always a good idea,” said Brenda Boynton, Volunteer Pawz and Purrz Animal Rescue.
In New York State, laws are put in place to protect pets during harsh weather.
“In New York State, the law says in inclement weather, if your animal is going to be outside, they have to have adequate shelter,” said Hopkins.
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While some dog breeds enjoy spending time outdoors, experts caution against letting them stay outside for too long.
“For the larger dogs, some of them, as I said, really enjoy being outside, but also if you could just keep an eye on them, maybe not let them out as long as they’d like to be, just to be sure that they’re staying warm also,” said Boynton.
With a few precautions, pets can stay safe and healthy throughout the winter months.
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