Cold Noses...Warm Hearts

The average dog has one request to all humankind. Love me."
~Helen Exley

Temperatures have dropped to record lows and the remnants of month old snow still lurk in shady spots all around our town. Cold weather has hit us hard over the last few weeks. We feel the stinging wind as we wrap our coats tightly and head out the door. We put on gloves, maybe an extra pair of socks, and make sure our kids wear an undershirt. Maybe you’ve enjoyed a nice pot of vegetable soup and a warm grilled cheese sandwich…Or chilly beans with crackers. “Good for you” food—the kind that warms you from the inside out.

But what about your animals? Do you have dogs or cats or any other living animal that depends on you for survival? Yes, I know that animals have a thick coat of fur, but in the frigid temperatures we have been experiencing, even the animals get cold. Wild animals are free to roam in search of food, water and shelter—a freedom that domesticated animals do not have. They depend on us totally for survival and do not deserve to be left in the cold. Remember that water freezes, and no animal can drink frozen water. When we get too cold, our feet and hands hurt. The same is true for animals. Their paws can hurt and even become frostbitten.

I am aware that some people will never agree with me in thinking that a family pet actually belongs in the home. I do however think it sad that those who do not share their home with their animals will never know the true companionship an animal can bring to one’s life. Dogs especially are pack animals and long to be near people. They deserve more than a life condemned to the far corner of a yard on a short chain or a little pen with no room for exercise.

I firmly believe that being a responsible pet owner consists of much more than delivering food and water to an animal once a day. We must love our animals and show compassion towards them and care for their well-being. If you are a pet owner, please take some extra precautions during these winter months to see that your animal has the provisions it needs to stay warm and healthy this winter. I urge you to bring your animals inside, but if this is not a possibility, check the water often, provide an extra blanket for warmth, and take steps to see that your animal is dry and blocked from the icy wind.

Animals cannot talk, but if they could, I bet they’d say “Thank you” and “I love you.” As for me, a lick and the wag of my dog’s tail is all I need to know that I am loved.

For more information about animal welfare visit these sites: www.dogsdeservebetter.org or www.unchainyourdog.org or www.HumaneSociety.org