Protecting pets in cold weather

SPRINGFIIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Sub-zero temperatures can be deadly to outdoor dogs.

If your have a dog that lives outside, some extra care is needed when the thermometer drops.

Instead of fabric bedding in a dog house, use straw or hay says Candy Lash,
Director of Community & Media Relations for the Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society. Cloth bedding can absorb moisture,hay and straw can provide more warmth for the dog/

Lash says too when temperatures are in the single digits or below zero, you might want to consider bringing a dog that normally lives outdoors into a garage or porch where it will have more protection from the elements. 

Also, the doorway of a dog house should be covered with a flap of heavy waterproof fabric or heavy plastic to keep out snow, and rain.

If you see an animal that you don't feel is getting care or shelter during the cold weather, contact either animal control for the town where the animal lives or the MSPCA Law Enforcement at 1-800-628-5808.

All complaints will be checked out and you can leave the information anonymously