Linda Herrmann ran the Angels Grace Toy Dog and Cat Rescue Inc. for 14 years.
During her tenure at the now defunct South Canaan Twp. animal shelter, she saw abandoned kittens with ears so frostbitten they fell off, and pet rabbits left out in temperatures so cold they froze to death.
As winter weather gets worse across Northeast Pennsylvania, she recommends simple tips to keep family pets safe during bad weather.
"Get them in, get them warm," she said.
Simple adjustments like shoveling a path for animals to go outside to relieve themselves can keep them from becoming snowbound. Bringing in hutched rabbits can keep them from freezing to death in cold temperatures. Horses and other livestock should have access to a barn and blankets to cover them.
If an outdoor dog can't be brought inside, Ms. Herrmann suggests running a low-wattage light bulb in the doghouse.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals noted that despite fur coats, dogs and other animals can fall victim to frostbite, exposure and even dehydration, so owners are encouraged to provide proper food, water and shelter during inclement weather.
PETA officials said puppies, kittens and short-haired dog breeds can help stave off the cold with warm sweaters or coats when they are taken outside for walks.
"Have a heart," Ms. Herr-mann said. "Be kind. You wouldn't want to be out there."
Contact the writer: ksullivan@timesshamrock.com, @ksullivanTT on TwitterWinter tips
-âKeep animals indoors, especially small animals and dogs with short-haired coats.
-âDon't let cats or dogs wander outdoors.
-âWipe off the animal's paws, legs and stomach when they come in from the snow.
-âKeep an eye out for strays; shelter them until they can be returned to owners or an animal shelter.
-âNotify authorities if you see animals left outside without shelter, food or water.