Keeping pets warm as temperatures drop: It’s the law

As we move toward the winter months, now is the time to think about how you will keep your pets safe and comfortable as temperatures drop. Tolerance to the cold can vary from animal to animal depending on coat type and thickness, body fat, medical conditions, age and activity level. Contact your veterinarian if you have questions about how your pets may react to cold weather.

County law requires that pet owners provide their animals with shelter from the elements, as well as bedding. The best option is to bring pets indoors during cold weather. If this isn’t possible, protection can also come in the form of a sturdy doghouse with warm, dry bedding, or a barn or other outbuilding that provides adequate housing. Raise floors and bedding off the ground to help minimize heat loss. If you care for feral or community cats, you can find information on caring for outdoor cats on the Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon’s website.

Cold weather also brings the risk of severe winter weather, which can result in power outages, road closures and supply chain issues. Prepare emergency kits for both the people and animals in your household. We recommend keeping at least a 10-day supply of food, water and any medications your animals need on hand at all times.

You can always call us at 503-846-7041 if you believe an animal in Washington County does not have adequate protection from the cold. One of our Animal Services officers will follow up.

For more information on these topics and more, please visit www.WashingtonCountyPets.com. The Bonnie Hays Animal Shelter is located at 1901 SE 24th Ave in Hillsboro.