How you can help animals during extreme cold in Indiana

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“We are seeing an increase in the number of animals coming in, and it’s not just dogs. We’re seeing an increase in cats, rabbits, and even birds.”

The Rise of Animal Shelters and the Challenges They Face

As the weather continues to change, animal shelters are facing unprecedented challenges. The recent Arctic blast has brought a surge in animal pick-ups, but this is not an isolated incident. Shelters across the country are experiencing an increase in weather-related animal pick-ups, and it’s not just limited to extreme weather events.

The Impact of Climate Change on Animal Shelters

Climate change is having a profound impact on animal shelters. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events are all contributing to an increase in animal pick-ups. This is not just a matter of animals seeking shelter from the cold; it’s also about the impact of climate change on animal behavior and welfare. Changes in animal behavior: As temperatures rise, animals are seeking shelter and food in different ways. For example, some animals may be more likely to seek shelter in buildings or under decks, while others may be more likely to seek shelter in trees or other natural areas. Increased risk of heat stress: As temperatures rise, animals are at risk of heat stress, which can be life-threatening.

Help IACS Make Room for More Animals in Need by Fostering or Adopting Today!

Fostering an animal allows you to provide temporary care for an animal until a permanent home is found. Adopting a pet allows you to provide a permanent home for a deserving animal. Both options allow you to make a difference in the lives of animals in need.

Ways to Help IACS with Overcrowding

Fostering an Animal

Fostering an animal is a great way to help IACS with overcrowding. By providing temporary care for an animal, you can help make room for another animal in need. Here are some benefits of fostering an animal:

  • You can provide a safe and comfortable environment for an animal until a permanent home is found. You can help socialize an animal, making it easier for it to be adopted. You can provide medical care and attention to an animal, helping it to heal and feel better. You can help reduce the stress and anxiety of an animal that is waiting for a permanent home. ### Adopting a Pet
  • Adopting a Pet

    Adopting a pet is another way to help IACS with overcrowding. By providing a permanent home for a deserving animal, you can help make room for another animal in need. Here are some benefits of adopting a pet:

  • You can provide a loving and stable home for an animal, giving it the care and attention it needs. You can help an animal feel safe and secure, reducing its stress and anxiety. You can provide a forever home for an animal, giving it a second chance at a happy life. You can help reduce the number of animals in shelters, making room for more animals in need. ### Getting Involved
  • Getting Involved

    Getting involved with IACS is easy and can make a big difference in the lives of animals in need. Here are some ways to get involved:

  • Volunteer at the shelter, helping with daily tasks and activities.

    Extreme Cold Can Be Fatal for Pets, Take Precautions to Protect Their Health and Well-being.

    The Dangers of Leaving Pets Outside in Extreme Cold

    Leaving pets outside in extreme cold temperatures can be detrimental to their health and well-being. The cold weather can cause a range of problems, from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions.

    The Risks of Hypothermia and Frostbite

  • Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95°F (35°C). Frostbite occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze. Both conditions can be fatal if left untreated. In extreme cold, pets can quickly succumb to these conditions. The risk of hypothermia and frostbite increases with the duration of exposure and the temperature. ### The Importance of Providing Shelter and Warmth*
  • The Importance of Providing Shelter and Warmth

  • Provide a warm and dry shelter for your pet to retreat to when the temperature drops. Use a heated bed or a warm blanket to keep your pet cozy. Consider investing in a heated shelter or a pet house with insulation. ### The Consequences of Leaving Pets Outside in Extreme Cold*
  • The Consequences of Leaving Pets Outside in Extreme Cold

  • Leaving pets outside in extreme cold can lead to:
      • Hypothermia and frostbite
      • Respiratory problems
      • Cardiac arrest
      • Organ failure
      • Death
      • The consequences of leaving pets outside in extreme cold can be severe and even life-threatening. It is essential to take precautions to protect your pet’s health and well-being.

        The Law and Penalties

  • It is against city-county ordinance to leave animals outside when the temperature is at or below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. You can face criminal charges if you leave pets outside in unsafe temperatures. Penalties can include fines and imprisonment.

    FIDO is a non-profit organization that provides free dog walking and pet sitting services to Indianapolis residents.

    The Importance of Keeping Dogs Safe in Extreme Weather

    As the temperature drops and the wind picks up, it’s essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of our furry friends. Dogs, especially those without proper shelter or protection, can quickly become vulnerable to the harsh conditions. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lead to hypothermia, frostbite, and even death.

    The Risks of Leaving Dogs Outside in Extreme Weather

  • Leaving dogs outside in extreme cold can lead to:
      • Hypothermia: a condition where the body’s core temperature drops below 95°F (35°C)
      • Frostbite: damage to the skin and underlying tissues caused by freezing temperatures
      • Dehydration: a lack of water intake due to cold-induced thirst
      • Disorientation and confusion
      • Increased risk of injury or illness
      • The Role of FIDO in Keeping Dogs Safe

        FIDO is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free dog walking and pet sitting services to Indianapolis residents.

        The IACS is asking the community to be patient as you may need to wait longer since officers have a higher workload. Calls for animal control officers tend to increase during the winter.

        Winter Animal Control Services**

        As the winter months approach, many animal control services, including the IACS, experience an increase in calls. This surge in demand can lead to longer wait times for residents who need assistance with animal-related issues.

        Why Winter Calls Increase**

        There are several reasons why animal control services, like the IACS, see a rise in calls during the winter:

      • Increased animal shelter intake: As the weather gets colder, more animals are brought to shelters, leading to a higher demand for animal control services. Stray animals seeking shelter: With the cold weather, stray animals may seek shelter in homes, yards, or other areas, leading to an increase in calls about nuisance animals. Increased animal-related emergencies: Winter weather can lead to accidents, such as cars hitting animals or animals getting trapped in snow, resulting in emergency calls.

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