Cold weather has arrived in Central Illinois and Peoria County Animal Protection Services (PCAPS) reminds pet owners that animals, particularly those outdoors, need special care during the winter months.

· Outdoor dogs need proper shelter consisting of a structure with four sides, a roof, a floor, and a door covering. The shelter should be small enough to retain the animal’s body heat and large enough for the animal to lie down comfortably.
· Provide a windbreak and use wood shavings or straw as bedding. Blankets, rugs, or towels retain moisture and freeze, which causes discomfort for the pet and does not make for good outdoor bedding.
· When the temperature dips below 10º bring your pet inside. Even though a dog or cat might survive temperatures that low, they will be extremely uncomfortable.
· Pets need fresh water available at all times – snow does not count. Give your pet more food because the extra calories help to keep it warm.
· Be careful of the salt used to melt snow because it can irritate your pet’s feet.
· Be alert to antifreeze spills. Antifreeze tastes sweet and attracts animals but is almost always deadly.

City, County, and State laws require owners provide proper care for their animals. Pet owners will be ticketed or have their animals impounded if they fail to provide proper food, water, shelter, or medical care. If you see an animal suffering in the cold weather, please call PCAPS immediately at 672-2440.

For more information, please call Lauren Malmberg, Peoria County Animal Protection Services Director, at (309) 672-2440.