By By Lisa Tindell
news editor
Workers with the Humane Society of Escambia County were busy Thursday and Friday helping pet owners in the county keep their pets warm during days expected to produce frigid temperatures.
Dawn Burkley, assistant at Brewton’s branch of the organization, said the assistance was a way to make sure pet owners who needed help got it.
Humane Society officials urged residents to take care of their pets during the cold weather. Temperatures are expected to be in the low teens or even lower overnight this weekend.
Pets left outdoors many times have only cages or open spaces available to them, which Burkley said is no protection.
Burkley said workers offered assistance to owners by way of materials and labor.
Wes Burkley, an employee of the Humane Society of Escambia County, worked with Jeremy Finklea Thursday in the Atmore area, Burkley said.
Burkley said laws governing the humane care of animals require owners to provide food, water and proper shelter for animals, regardless of weather conditions.
HSES Director Renee Jones said there are state statutes that require owners to be proactive in caring for outdoor pets.
Jones said the shelter must have a solid floor, leakproof roof and sides that are a size appropriate for the animal.
If a dog is tethered or chained, the chain must allow for the dog to get completely inside the house, Jones said.
The Humane Society of Escambia County may be able to assist with adequate housing. Donations of doghouses, kennels or funds specifically targeted for the same may be dropped off at 2763 South Blvd. in Brewton or 206 Cindebrand Drive in Atmore.