(CBS DETROIT) — We have already experienced arctic air this season and will do so again soon. These outdoor conditions are not only dangerous for you, but also for your pets.
That’s why lawmakers in Lansing are trying to redefine what it means to have adequate shelter for animals.
“When we went there, she was as happy as can be, but cold and shivering,” Eastpointe animal control officer Ashley Sanchez said.
Coco, who was recently freed by Sanchez, lived outside on a short tether, protected from the elements by only a blue tarp.
“There wasn’t even grass. When it rained, the dog turned into mud, so she slept in mud,” Sánchez said.
The City of Eastpointe has a unique ordinance that protects pets outdoors during the winter.
“Dogs should not be outside at all below 42 degrees. It is quick to go outside to use the bathroom and then come right back inside. They should also not be outside or be outside unattended. And no dogs are allowed outside from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.,” said Sanchez.
Now lawmakers are trying to change the law, which only vaguely states that a shelter must have three walls and a roof.
“My staff does not want to spend another winter searching for dead dogs in the city of Detroit, and this will allow people to better prepare and care for their pets when this weather changes,” said Matt Pepper, president and executive director of Michigan Humane.
House Bill 6015 would clearly define what constitutes appropriate shelter for animals.
“A plastic barrel, that’s not okay. If it’s modified, like with good insulation and heating, then it’s fine. There’s just a very long list of structures that are okay and not okay, like the crawl space under your deck is not okay,” said Rep. Penelope Tsernoglou.
The bill also states that a dog house must have dry bedding to provide insulation such as straw.
During the winter, the safest place for your pets is indoors, but if you can’t bring them inside, there are resources that can help you keep them safe. Michigan Humane offers free straw and igloos.
Supplies are limited and there is a waiting list for igloos.
“If you see something that doesn’t look right, report it. Don’t assume someone else is going to report it and let us know. Call your local authorities. Call Detroit, please. Call Detroit Animal Care and Control. Call Michigan Humane We’re here to help, and I’d rather go to a hundred animals that will do well than miss the ones that won’t,” Pepper said.
The House bill must still be voted on before the end of the current legislative session on Wednesday. If it doesn’t pass, lawmakers have promised to propose it again next year.
Advocates recommend residents email or call their state representatives and senators to urge them to support House Bill 6015.
“If we see that a particular issue is getting a lot of calls or emails, we pay more attention to it,” Tsernoglou said.
Coco was rescued just in time. Changing the law would help others like Coco before it’s too late.
“It’s about making sure we find the right shelter for her so she can find a better home,” Sánchez said.
