Leaving Dogs In The Cold Now A Felony

Mother Nature and global warming have not figured out what season it is just yet and it’s leaving a lot of states still enduring freezing temperatures. Some people are still checking their cars before taking off to work in the morning in fear a kitten may have took refuge under the hood for warmth. Others are driving through snowy neighborhoods wondering why there’s a dog tied up to a tree.

Hopefully, the legislative steps that have been taken in the last year to fight against this will set an example for our nation as a whole.

Context! Last year, Pennsylvania had its first winter season after Libre’s Law was passed. The law was put in to place to crack down on pets being left outside in the cold. Specifically when it’s 32 degrees or less outside and owners get in trouble when their pets are outside for more than 30 minutes. This law also applies to the summer when temperatures are scorching above 90 degrees.

WNEP reported on the new law back in November when humane officers were ready on their game to work and enforce the new law. One of the humane officers by the name of Lisa Devlin shared that when the law was enacted, they had 15 reports within 2 weeks.

Devlin explained her role, "I like to educate. Humane officers are here to educate proper pet care, so I educate. I'll knock on a door and remind them that there is a law. Maybe they're not familiar with it. I'll let them know what's required."

But what about the rest of the country?

Right now we can count Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Washington D.C., and Ohio as the first to take steps against animal cruelty. For the rest of the United States, however, we have a ways to go but we’re hopeful that Pennsylvania’s Libre Law will influence others.

Until that happens, here’s what we can do to help furbabies in need!

• Don’t stay quiet or look away. If you see dogs or furbabies subjected to freezing or extreme temperatures, report it and document what you see if possible for reference.
• Make the call. Get in contact with the Humane Society and have them advise you on what to do next.
• Contact the County Sheriff’s Office. If you documented the sighting with photos, present it to the County Sheriff’s Office or give them a call.

Every step or action we take can make a difference for a doggo in need, so don’t hesitate to take the steps necessary to insure the safety of a furry friend.