Urgent Message From PETA: Cold-Weather Survival Tips for Animals

For Immediate Release:
November 8, 2019

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

As freezing temperatures affect Winnipeg, animals, who can suffer from deadly frostbite and exposurebecome dehydrated when water sources ice over, and die, are at risk. Just this week, a dog had to be rescued after falling through the ice on a frozen pond at Kilcona Dog Park. People should always use a secure harness when taking dogs on walks to help prevent them from getting loose and falling into icy waters and make sure that dogs’ feet are protected from the cold ground with comfortable booties.

 Keep animals indoors. Freezing temperatures spell extra hardship for “backyard dogs,” who often go without adequate food, water, shelter, or veterinary care. If you see animals left outside without shelter from the elements and are unable to help, note their location and alert authorities immediately. (For information regarding what constitutes adequate shelter, click here.)

In cold weather, you can provide birds and other animals with access to water by filling a heavy nonmetal water bowl (tongues can freeze to metal) and breaking the surface ice twice a day. When weather improves, be sure to remove any food offerings to encourage animals to move on to warmer areas.

Anyone who leaves animals outside to suffer in severe weather may be prosecuted.

 PETA has released a cold-weather PSA—voiced by Tom Hardy, Casey Affleck, and Priyanka Chopra—or this animated PSA, both of which urge everyone to bring dogs inside from the cold. For more information, visit PETA.org.