Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Sheriff asks community to help keep pets warm this winter

 

POLK COUNTY—The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is asking for donations of new and gently used large dog houses to help keep community pets warm this winter.

The theme of the drive is, “Every dog deserves a warm place to stay.” This is the first time PCSO has held a dog house drive and fundraiser of this kind. 

“Cats and dogs should be kept inside during cold weather. It’s a common belief that dogs and cats are more resistant than people to cold weather because of their fur, but it’s untrue,” according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. “Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia and generally should be kept inside.”

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) reported that at least six dogs died in 2023 from lack of shelter, down from 35 dogs in 2022. The organization has reported they’ve already had reports of two dogs dying from lack of shelter in 2024.

“In winter, a dog house can help prevent hypothermia in dogs and provide protection from rain, snow, wind, and extreme temperatures,” said Diane Orenchuk, dog trainer and behaviorist of petmd.com.

The location for dog house drop off is the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, located at 164 Government Drive in Columbus. Dog house pickups are available by calling 828-894-3001, extension 309. Monetary donations will also be accepted.