Houston Pet Owners: Understand Texas Safe Outdoor Dogs Act During Freeze

Pet Safety During Extreme Cold

• ⚠️ Providing proper shelter for pets is the law in Texas, especially during extreme cold.
• 💡 The SPCA warns that temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit can be considered animal cruelty if pets are left outside without adequate shelter.
• 🏠 The Texas Safe Outdoor Dogs Act mandates that outdoor pets must be brought inside or provided with a shelter that allows them to sit, stand, and lie down.
• 🛠️ This shelter must have three solid sides, a top, and a bottom, along with adequate bedding.

Potential Charges for Violations

• ⚖️ Violating the Safe Outdoor Dogs Act can result in misdemeanor or even felony charges, particularly if an animal dies as a result.
• 🚨 SPCA senior investigator Octavio Gonzalez emphasizes the seriousness of these charges, especially during major weather events.

Helping Stray and Wild Animals

• 🐾 The SPCA also urges the public to be mindful of wild animals and stray cats during extreme weather.
• 📦 Consider creating makeshift shelters, such as a tub with a small hole, for strays to seek refuge.
• 🏥 The SPCA's wildlife center will be open for drop-offs of orphaned, sick, or injured animals after extreme weather events.
• ❤️ Many residents are already taking proactive steps, like leaving out warm blankets or food for stray animals.