A DOGHOUSE AWAY FROM HOME

Pet expert Charlotte Reed advises on new law requiring doghouse in New York

New York, New York (PRWEB) -- November 25, 2003 -- As of yesterday, New York State mandates that all dog owners provide their dogs with outdoor housing to protect them from the elements. Those pet owners who do not give their dogs good homes" will be fined $50-$250 every day and risk having their dog seized by authorities until they provide proof of having complied with the law.

According to the regulation, an adequate shelter is described as having a waterproof roof and insulation. It must also be sturdy and with enough room for a dog to stand up, turn around and lie down with his limbs outstretched. The doghouse and its surrounding areas must be kept clean of waste, dirt and trash.

"Although this law is a terrific step towards insuring the humane treatment of pets and punishment for those who mistreat animals, the idea of having any pet dog residing outdoors permanently remains unappealing to most pet lovers," said Charlotte Reed, who owns Two Dogs and a Goat pet care service and authors pet columns for American Magazine, Fido Friendly and New York Resident. "Dogs are social creatures who benefit from emotional and physical human interaction. They belong inside homes where they can receive companionship, love and daily care such as food, water and exercise. Dogs who are left isolated or tethered to a tree all day are likely to suffer from frustration. As a result, they are likely to be more aggressive, bite, bark and be dirty."

Reed advises that if you purchase a doghouse, think of it as your dogs room of his own, a place where he can have personal time, or as a respite from his time exercising outside. Your dog should spend short periods of time in the shelter within a fenced area. Most doghouses are designed to protect your animal from the elements but not from severe cold or intense heat. Pet owners who leave their dogs outside must be careful that their dogs do not suffer from frostbite, skin ailments, hypothermia and/or heatstroke.

When choosing a dog house, consider:

1.    Sizing: large enough for your dog to be comfortable

2.    Materials and construction: how easy it will be to keep it clean

3.    Ventilation: appropriate to promote air circulation

4.    Insulation: weather and draft-proof protection

Once you purchase your house, place it in a location that is shaded during the warmest part of the day. Also, elevate the shelter at least three inches above the ground; the airspace beneath the house will help keep it cool in the summer and warm and off the ground in the winter.

For people who justify leaving their dogs outside due to the dog's misbehavior, odor or destructiveness, Reed recommends behavior classes. Ask your veterinarian or local animal shelter for a recommendation or contact the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (www.apdt.com or call 1-800-PET DOGS).

For more information on doghouses or Charlotte Reed, visit www.charlottereed.com or call 212-213-6979.

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TO ARRANGE AN INTERVIEW WITH CHARLOTTE REED, CALL LISA ELIA AT 310-393-9547.