Watch CBS News

New State Law Punishes Owners Who Leave Animals Out In The Cold

(CBS) -- As we head into a major cold snap Saturday, pet owners take note: a new state law punishes those who leave their animals out in the cold for long stretches.

WBBM's Nancy Harty reports the Humane Care for Animals act took effect at the beginning of the month, making it a Class A misdemeanor if a pet owner exposes a dog, cat or horse to life-threatening heat or cold.

Podcast

Lake County (IL) encourages owners to limit how long pets are out in below-freezing temps, put coats on shorthaired animals and watch for signs of hypothermia or frostbite and keep animals away from deicers that can burn their feet.

A Class A misdemeanor is punishable by just under a year in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.