Local cruelty investigators see uptick in calls about pets being left outside

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) - Extreme weather, cold or hot, leads to an increase in the caseload for cruelty investigators at the Toledo Humane Society (THS). So this will, no doubt, be a busy week.

Experts say it’s simple. If you’re cold, your pets are cold. And as this dangerous deep freeze continues, cruelty investigators are asking everyone to bring their pets inside.

This is a busy week for cruelty investigators at THS. The snow and extreme cold add another layer to their already busy schedules.

Stephen Heaven is the head of the shelter. He said it’s important to remind people that this is a life-and-death matter.

“Unfortunately, it happens more than you think. Every year, we have a handful of dogs that succumb to the cold and it’s horrible because it’s preventable,” Heaven said.

Justin Schneider is a cruelty investigator for the Toledo Humane Society. Part of his job includes educating people, but it also involves filing charges and taking animals when needed.

“It’s frustrating because these animals are suffering and they deserve a lot better. A big part of my job is to make sure they are getting the care they need, so they don’t suffer or die from people neglecting them,” Schneider said.

If you have an outside dog, you are required by state law to provide access to fresh water and food as well as adequate shelter.

“When we talk about adequate shelter, we are talking about a doghouse with four sides. A floor and a roof that is filled with straw. It needs to be the right size for the dog to easily get in and retain its body heat. They burn calories when they’re shivering and that can speed up hypothermia and eventual death,” Schneider said.

And having a fur coat makes no difference.

“With these temperatures, their fur does not help at all. That’s why we ask you to bring them inside or in a doghouse,” Schneider said.

If you see something, say something. Heaven says many of the tips of neglect and abuse come from the public and people are understandably upset when they see dogs left out in the elements.

“If the situation is in compliance with state law, there is very little we can do, other than recommend bringing the animal in. People get frustrated, but there are limits to our power. It’s also frustrating to us,” Heaven said.

While we’ve all heard the message before, Heaven says the fact that animals continue to die after being left outside is proof of the importance of this reminder.

“It is frustrating. It is the same message year after year and people don’t listen. They think it won’t happen to them. When in fact, in this weather, it can happen very quickly,” Heaven said.

Obviously, dogs need to go outside, but experts say limit their time in this weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, lethargy, pale gums and cool body surfaces. And remember, it can affect your pet in a matter of minutes.

In the Toledo area, cruelty investigations are handled by the Toledo Humane Society. The number is (419) 891-9777. The agency says if it’s after hours, call your local police department.

Also, if you need help with your pet, ask for it. The humane society and other rescues have a number of resources available.

To learn more, click here.

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