Video: Devoted Dog Duo Saved From Freezing Weather Must Not Be Separated
Bonded Pair Found in a Crate Outside in 21-Degree Temperatures Whisked to Safety at Norfolk SPCA: PETA Issues Urgent Advisory to Bring Dogs Inside
For Immediate Release:
February 2, 2022
Contact:
Nicole Meyer 202-483-7382
Charlie and Diamond were huddled together, shivering and scared outside with a wind chill of 21 degrees, when PETA fieldworkers found them locked in a wire crate on a porch in Halifax County (video available here). Their owner refused to bring the “odd couple” besties—a Chihuahua mix and a pit bull mix—inside, despite the deadly danger of the freeze, but gave them to PETA when told that leaving them outside is illegal and the sheriff would have to be called. After warming up at PETA’s headquarters, the Sam Simon Center, the devoted duo were transferred to the Norfolk SPCA, where they’re now in search of a loving home—together.
“Charlie’s and Diamond’s days of freezing, misery, and fear are gone, and PETA is grateful to the Norfolk SPCA for the opportunity to find them a loving indoor home together,” says PETA Senior Vice President Colleen O’Brien. “Their story shows why we must all keep our eyes peeled for dogs suffering and shivering out in the cold and call the authorities, or PETA, for help.”
“If you’re ready to get twice as much gratitude and love from this big and small dog combo, then Charlie and Diamond could be the perfect match for you,” says Norfolk SPCA Executive Director Kimberly Sherlaw. “We’re looking forward to finding them a new home where they can cuddle up for companionship instead of for survival.”
Anyone who sees animals left outside without shelter from the elements should note their location and alert authorities immediately. These animals can suffer from frostbite and exposure, become dehydrated when water sources ice over, and die. Cold weather and winter storms lead to multiple deaths, injuries, and rescues each year. (And most incidents aren’t even reported.) While helping animals in northeastern North Carolina, PETA’s fieldworkers encounter countless dogs—mostly pit bulls like Diamond, whose short hair leaves them vulnerable to the cold—tethered with heavy chains, in which they can become entangled and die because they’re unable to reach food, water, or shelter.
With more below-freezing temperatures in the forecast—and countless dogs still shivering in yards throughout the region—PETA is rushing a new 30-second public service announcement starring New England Patriots linebacker Matt Judon to local TV networks. “My dogs are part of my family, and I would never leave my family outside,” he says. “So bring your dogs inside and show them the love and respect that they show you.”
For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow the group on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.
