Posted in Latest Pinellas County Veterinary News, SPCA Tampa Bay News
SPCA Tampa Bay
Pets in Winter
In most parts of the country, the cold weather has set in for the winter. Although we have only had a small taste of that cold weather here in Florida, it will be arriving soon. This means that your pets will be exposed to the weather just like you. If you have indoor pets, you may be wondering how much outdoor time is safe for them. Well, how long your pet should be outside in the cold weather depends on the pet’s size, breed and hair coat. As a rule of thumb, if you are cold outside, your pet is most likely also cold outside. However, dogs and cats with long hair that are traditionally found in cold environments can withstand much colder temperatures than we receive here in Florida. If your pet has a thick winter coat, it may be able to easily withstand temperatures below freezing for long periods of time, provided that it has access to adequate shelter. For our short haired pets though, that is not the case. It’s best to keep them inside the majority of the time when temperatures drop to avoid possible hypothermia. In any event, if you are unsure it is always best to consult with your veterinarian on what is best for your furry friend.
Calendars are in and Santa has arrived
Pinellas County Animal Services is kicking off the holiday season by offering pet photos with Santa Claus and Captain Barky on Thursday, Dec. 6, and Thursday, Dec. 13, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 12450 Ulmerton Road in Largo.
Pet owners can bring their pets to the shelter to have their picture taken with Santa for a $10 donation to the Animal Welfare Trust Fund. Each donor will also receive a 2019 calendar featuring furry friends from the shelter.
Those who adopt on Dec. 6 and 13 will receive the pet portrait free of charge.
December campaign aims to give dogs a “Home for the Holidays”
Residents can foster dogs for two nights to find the right fit for their home
Pinellas County Animal Services aims to make the holidays a little brighter for dogs in need of a good home this season with “Home for the Holidays,” a program that allows residents to foster dogs for two nights in hopes they find the perfect fit for their family. The campaign runs Dec. 1 to 21.
Home for the Holidays is only available for adult large breed dogs, with a focus on dogs that have been with Animal Services for more than 100 days. If the fit is not perfect after two nights, the home still provides a comfortable break for the pet.
Those interested in adopting a pet this holiday season from Animal Services can do so for $5 for all cats and kittens, $25 for large adult dogs and $75 for small breeds and puppies. The adoption center is open every night until 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., but closed on Monday, Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve), as well as Tuesday, Dec. 25 (Christmas Day).
Anyone interested in adopting or who has received training and is interested in fostering should call the Pinellas County Animal Services adoption coordinator at (727) 582-2600 opt. 8 and schedule an appointment for pick up.
As always, any questions or comments, please contact me at rlopez@spcatampabay.org
Rizal Lopez, DVM
Senior Director/Veterinary Services
SPCA of Tampa Bay
9099 130th Avenue North | Largo, FL 33773
727.499.0370 fax: 727.499.0368
