Office of Animal Welfare reminds owners to protect pets in rainy weather

Officials remind us that rainy weather not only makes life harder for humans, it can make life harder for pets who spend time outdoors.

Parts of Delaware may see heavy rain this Labor Day weekend, so the Division of Public Health’s Office of Animal Welfare reminds owners to take extra special care of their pets.

OAW has provided some tips for keeping your pet comfortable during potentially stormy weather:

• If possible, keep all pets indoors at this time. If not in the house, at least in the garage or laundry room where they can be kept dry.
• Be cautious about letting your pet play in or drink ground water. Water may be contaminated or contain debris.
• Offer reassurance or consider crating them in a room where they feel safe during thunderstorms.
• Be sure to dry off the paws, legs, and stomach when you bring them back in from outside.
• Keep pets away from downed power lines, debris, and fallen tree branches.
• Bring inside any outdoor food and water.
• Consider having extra food on hand.
• Do not chain pets outside or confine them to an outdoor kennel. Sudden high winds or rain could create a trap from which they cannot escape.

Under Senate Bill 217, a new Delaware law sponsored by State Senator Patricia Blevins, dogs cannot be left outdoors during hazardous weather warnings issued by the National Weather Service.

The Division of Public Health urges people to closely monitor weather updates this weekend.

“Pets can be affected by stormy weather, even in mild conditions,” said OAW Executive Director Hetti Brown.  “Taking a few precautions can help your pet manage rainy weather more safely and easily.”