Last winter, an emergency rescue mission called Operation Deep Freeze saved 14 neglected dogs from freezing to death in a West Virginia blizzard. The animals had no food, no shelter, and no way to survive the cold. A coordinated team of rescuers gave them warmth, medical care, and a second chance.

But this crisis is not unique. Across the country, every winter, animals are abandoned or neglected in freezing temperatures. Many suffer. Some die. Rescue groups are often the only hope, and they are stretched thin.

We believe the success of Operation Deep Freeze should serve as a national model.

We are calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture, state legislators, and national animal welfare organizations to support the creation of a National Winter Animal Rescue Initiative. This initiative should:

• Fund rapid-response rescue missions in cold-weather emergencies
• Provide support for shelters, veterinary care, and transport in under-resourced areas
• Promote partnerships between animal control, nonprofits, and law enforcement
• Educate the public about existing cold-weather cruelty laws

Helping animals survive winter should not rely on luck or isolated acts of heroism. We need a national framework to make sure help reaches animals before they suffer.

Please sign this petition to call for a coordinated, compassionate response that saves lives every winter.

Photo: Animal Rescue Corps