HOPATCONG BOROUGH, N.J. (Sussex County) — The Hopatcong Animal Shelter is urging residents to keep pets indoors as dangerously cold temperatures move through the area, warning that exposure can quickly lead to serious harm.
In a cold-weather safety reminder, the shelter said extreme temperatures can cause hypothermia, frostbite and other injuries “in a short amount of time,” and advised pet owners to limit time outdoors.
The shelter said pets should not be left outside for extended periods and that animals who must go outside should have proper shelter, warmth and access to fresh, unfrozen water. It also recommended short, supervised outdoor breaks only.
The shelter asked residents to report suspected cases of animals being left outside too long in the cold.
“If you observe a dog or other pet being left outside for an excessive amount of time in these conditions, please contact your local police department so officers can conduct a welfare check,” the shelter said, adding that such calls could help save an animal’s life.
