By Carey Sharp

Mower County Humane Society

Minnesota winter weather has arrived. The snow is beautiful and adds a festive feel to the season, but it’s not so easy on pets. It’s a good time to remind people to keep their furry friends safe and happy.

Having a fur coat does not make a dog or cat completely impervious to the elements. The feet and ears can take a beating in harsh winter temperatures. Like people, cats and dogs can suffer frostbite and hypothermia. If the temperature is uncomfortable for people, it’s probably uncomfortable for pets.

The MCHS has been receiving multiple calls regarding pets left outside in the sub-zero temps. Animal welfare calls should be made to local law enforcement (437-9400 in Austin). At the MCHS we believe that all pets should be inside with their people. There are statutes in place to protect pets that are considered “outside pets.”

A dog that is housed outside must be done so in compliance to state statutes. A dog house must be insulated and elevated a few inches off the ground. It must be filled with clean, dry bedding at all times. The house must also have a wind break. Plastic igloo houses do not meet the statutes. All animals should have access to fresh, clean, unfrozen food and water. Snow and ice are not a substitute for drinking water.

Questions regarding animal welfare and state statutes can also be answered by calling the MN Federated Humane Societies at 612-866-8663. Don’t be afraid to get involved.

The holiday season is a good time to be thankful for the generous support the MCHS receives from the community. We recently received many donations from students at the I.J. Holton Intermediate School in Austin due to their “Random Acts of Kindness” program. MCHS volunteers were impressed by the unselfish enthusiasm shown by these young people. What great kids and what a great program!

We have also received many donations in memory of a wonderful lady. Nini Johnson passed away recently. She was a longtime volunteer and supporter of the shelter. She actually wrote this column for many years. She was a quiet lady, with a graceful manner, a sharp wit and a twinkle in her eye.

Nini and her dog, Gypsy, spent countless hours visiting schools and organizations in the area. They entertained and educated people while promoting the MCHS and adoption. Nini was also a gifted artist and there are numerous people in the area who possess portraits of their pets painted by her.

With her kindness and her giving nature, Nini simply made the world a better place.

We are grateful for donations in memory of Terry Garness, Paul Binder, “Rex” Sherman, Betty Johnson, Gene Roden, Charles Conway, Joan Johnson, Don Bartley, “Digger and Sparky”, “Sammy” Snyder, “Chandler” Enos, Lorraine Kreepicka, Doug Winters, and Betty, Don, Sue and Casey Maclachlan. We also received donations in honor of the marriage of Alainna and Jonathan Amazi, Jeff and LeAnn Ettinger, and Lulu Bach (from her grandmother).