Cats and dogs should be kept indoors during cold weather. It is a common belief that cats and dogs are more resistant to cold weather because of their fur, but this is simply not true. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia and should be kept inside. Providing them a little shelter with straw is not enough. Longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds are more tolerant of cold weather, however, no pet should be left outdoors for long periods of time in below-freezing weather. This information is available on the American Veterinary Medical Association's website.

We want it to be required by state law that outdoor animals be brought indoors when the temperature is below freezing.