PEORIA (25 News Now) – When it comes to keeping animals away in the winter, the old advice is, “If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.”
The TAPS animal shelter is said to be completely full, but people have come to unload the animals.
Now they are calling on pet owners to responsibly bring dogs and cats indoors.
Their fur provides some protection, but even breeds made for the cold can struggle in freezing temperatures.
TAPS executive director Holly Crotty says to call Animal Control if you see feral or domestic animals out in the cold for long periods of time.
“If you see animals outdoors, be their voice. We really need to be their voice because they can’t save themselves,” she said.
Livestock owners have also taken action to prepare for sub-zero temperatures in recent days.
Livestock owner and Illinois Department of Agriculture leader Tasha Bunting says the animals are mostly self-reliant.
Cows can produce enough heat to keep barns safe. Chickens, pigs, and other livestock may need some help to maintain their body temperature.
But Bunting says most of the work is providing food, water and warm bedding.
“They hide in their groups and wait for it to pass.
Bunting said dairy farmers in the Midwest are likely taking steps to keep their animals warm over the next few days.
The Illinois Department of Agriculture has not made specific recommendations for keeping livestock warm in the winter.
If pet owners need to take their pets outside, it is recommended that they keep their trips outside short and allow their pets to dry and warm in the snow or cold.
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