Woman faces $410 fine for leaving dog in cold car

CITYnews halifax / By Rachel Morgan

A woman is facing charges after a dog was left in a cold vehicle in Dartmouth.

Halifax Regional Police were called to a parking lot in the 100 block of Tacoma Dr. around 8 p.m. on Jan. 28 to reports of a dog in a vehicle who appeared to be in distress.

An officer located the vehicle and observed the dog inside. They note that it was -10 C at the time.

The officer located the owner, a 26-year-old woman, nearby.

The owner was issued a summary offence ticket for causing an animal to be in distress under section 26(1) of the Animal Protection Act. The offence carries a fine of $410.

Cold temperatures don’t just pose a threat for humans, your furry friends are also feeling the effects.

The Nova Scotia SPCA says most dogs get cold around -5 to -10 C but depends on coat type and size. Cats should not be outdoors when the temperature drops below 0 C.

The humane society has posted tips for keeping your pets safe in the winter. Those tips include shortening walks, limiting time outdoors to potty breaks in extreme cold, watching for shivering, vocalizing and lifting paws, and drying off pets if they get wet.

Pets are at risk for both hypothermia and frostbite which both require vet attention.