Pets in the Cold: Humane Society Ride-A-Long

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DAYTON -- No one likes to be outside in these frigid temperatures even if you have fur. With single digit temperatures like we saw Tuesday, the Humane Society got dozens of complaints from people concerned about animals left in the cold.I'm just going to give you an advisory, said Chief Humane Agent of the Humane Society Of Greater Dayton Sheila Marquis to dog owner Samantha Ogelsby.Me personally, I don't like seeing dogs out in the cold but since we have so many, there's no way we can keep them all in the house, said Ogelsby who has several dogs.She's in a tough spot because the Humane Society recommends keeping your animals inside in this weather.If you can't keep your pets inside, there are a few things you will have to do to protect them.We look to see if the animals have shelter and if they do have shelter it needs to be warm shelter. You can't just put up a couple of boards and call it a shelter. It has to be warm. It has to have straw, blankets or something that would keep the animal warm, said Marquis.Also your dog's water bowl will freeze a lot faster if they are metal. The Humane Society recommends plastic.The dog owners put fresh hay and water for the dogs, knowing it doesn't take long before hypothermia or frostbite can kick in,In this type of weather it's a huge concern if they don't have what they need, said Marquis. It doesn't take long for illness to set in or even death.Also be careful that your animals don't step in any chemicals that you may put on the ground like salt or de-icer. If they do, wash off their paws immediately.Here are some tips and reminders to help pet owners keep their animals safe and healthy: Cats and dogs need protection from the cold, wet winters. Most dogs, and all cats, are safer indoors. Dont let their drinking water freeze. Use plastic food and water bowls rather than metal; the pets tongue can stick and freeze to metal. Antifreeze tastes good to pets, but it is a deadly poison. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze (and all household chemicals) out of reach. Chemicals used to melt snow and ice are irritating to paws. Wipe paws with a damp towel to prevent pets from licking them and irritating his/her mouth. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so please make sure yours always has its license on its collar.Citizens may report suspected animal neglect by calling 898-4457 or emailing animalshelter@mcohio.orgConnect with ABC 22/FOX 45 Reporter Wale Aliyu on Facebook and Twitter.