
How to Help Animals Left Outside During a Louisiana Freeze
Winter storm Enzo is headed to Louisiana and is set to bring sub-freezing temperatures and several inches of snow for most of Acadiana.

The chance of snow can be exciting for those of us who have never built a snowman or made snow angels like you see in the movies. Unfortunately, it's not all fun and games, especially for the animals who are left to fend for themselves outside.
Freezing Temperatures Extremely Dangerous For Louisiana Pets
Dogs and cats are highly vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia during freezing weather. Just a few hours in sub-freezing temperatures can cause severe injury or even death.
Animals that are left outside without adequate shelter, bedding, or warmth may suffer prolonged exposure, leading to organ failure and death.
A viral Facebook post shows the dangers of relying on a dog house and hay to keep your pet safe in sub-freezing temperatures, "Your house isn't that special that you can't section off an area for a few days." As a pet owner, it is without a doubt your responsibility to keep your pets out of harm's way and in a safe place during inclement weather.
Animal Cruelty Laws in Louisiana Will Be Enforced For Winter Storm Enzo
After speaking with local enforcement, anyone with concerns about pets left outside during the winter storm can call 911, and dispatch will either transfer your call to Animal Control or contact them for you.
You will need to provide an address and description of the animal. Videos and pictures are not necessary, but they do help in most cases.
Under Louisiana state law (RS 14:102.1), it is illegal to neglect or fail to provide proper shelter, water, or food for animals. This includes failing to protect them from extreme weather, such as freezing temperatures. Animal cruelty is a misdemeanor in Louisiana, but repeated offenses or extreme neglect can result in felony charges.
Please bring your pets inside during this winter storm to prevent them from dying a slow, painful death alone in the cold.
LOOK: Biggest Snowfalls Recorded in Louisiana History
Gallery Credit: Stacker
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