DHSS Press Release

OFFICE OF ANIMAL WELFARE REMINDS:
PROTECT PETS IN RAINY WEATHER

Dover (Sept. 2, 2016) - Rainy weather not only makes life harder for humans, it can make life harder for pets who spend time outdoors. Because parts of Delaware may see heavy rain this holiday weekend, the Division of Public Health's Office of Animal Welfare (OAW) reminds people to take extra special care of their pets.

Tips for keeping your pet comfortable during potentially stormy weather:

• If possible, keep all pets indoors at this time. If not in the house, at least in the garage or laundry room where they can be kept dry.
• Be cautious about letting your pet play in or drink ground water. Water may be contaminated or contain debris.
• Offer reassurance or consider crating them in a room where they feel safe during thunderstorms.
• Be sure to dry off the paws, legs, and stomach when you bring them back in from outside.
• Keep pets away from downed power lines, debris, and fallen tree branches.
• Bring inside any outdoor food and water.
• Consider having extra food on hand.
• Do not chain pets outside or confine them to an outdoor kennel. Sudden high winds or rain could create a trap from which they cannot escape.

Under Senate Bill 217, a new Delaware law sponsored by State Senator Patricia Blevins, dogs cannot be left outdoors during hazardous weather warnings issued by the National Weather Service. According to the service, a Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for our coastal counties, adjacent coastal waters, and lower Delaware but no warning has been issued at this time. The Division of Public Health urges people to closely monitor weather updates this weekend.

"Pets can be affected by stormy weather, even in mild conditions," said OAW Executive Director Hetti Brown. "Taking a few precautions can help your pet manage rainy weather more safely and easily."

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, drink almost no sugary drinks.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.