 |
The Lancaster Board of Selectmen has appointed six Lancaster residents as members of the Animal Control Commission. This is a varied group of volunteers with knowledge or experience in animal care, behavior and breeding, and law enforcement. The Commission’s authority and purpose was established through a Legislative Act (Chapter 179 of the Acts of 2004).
The Animal Control Commission is charged with evaluating animal control problems by collecting necessary data, hearing expert opinion, holding public hearings, and other activities in order to make recommendations to resolve such problems. The Commission recruits and hires the Animal Control Officer, as well as establishes rules and regulations for the care and control of animals and facilities covered by the Town bylaws, prepares budgets for animal control activities, and sets the fees for dog licenses and the fines for non-compliance with the Animal Control Bylaw.
5 Pet Care Tips for Frigid Temperatures
As the temperatures drop, pet owners should ensure that their animals are safe and warm. The MSPCA-Angell recommends the following 5 tips for when the temperatures fall:
- More than Walls: Outdoor shelters for pets should be dry, secure from wind, and large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down. The shelter floor should also be elevated from ground level and have dry bedding. A steady water supply should be provided in plastic bowls and checked on so that it does not freeze.
- Rap the Hood: Keep your pets warm and indoors. As always cats should stay inside. Since cats left outdoors may stay warm in car wheel wells or under hoods, you should awake any sleeping animals by rapping on your car hood before starting the engine.
- Shorten Walks: Trips outside should remain short during the winter months. While dogs need outdoor exercise, lengthy walks can prove harmful especially when wind chill is a factor.
- Dress for the Weather: Shorthaired dogs such as Greyhounds, Beagles, Chihuahuas, and clipped breeds should be dressed in protective clothing.
- Growing Appetites: Pets that spend a greater amount of time outdoors also require more food.
| |
