Letting your pets outside? A Massachusetts police department is warning owners you could be breaking the law

With temperatures falling lower than we have seen so far this season, a Massachusetts police department is reminding the public to protect your pets.

The Dedham Police Department wants to let pet owners know to bring your pets inside or you may be breaking the law.

According to M.G.L. Chapter 140 Section 174E, a person shall not leave a dog outside when a weather advisory, warning or watch is issued by a local, state or federal authority or when outside environmental conditions including, but not limited to, extreme heat, cold, wind, rain, snow or hail pose an adverse risk to the health or safety of the dog based on the dog’s breed, age or physical condition, unless the tethering is for not more than 15 minutes.

Dedham PD also has these tips:

-Jackets/sweaters are great, especially for small, thin-coated, and/or senior dogs that may be more sensitive to the cold.

-When returning inside from walks, check your pet’s paws to be sure they are not irritated from the cold and ice; a warm, wet wipe is great to wash off any ice melt or sand.

-Always store ice melt and antifreeze in a safe place where pets cannot get into them; and wipe up any spills of such as both can be poisonous if ingested.

-If you suspect your pet has ingested anything poisonous, call your vet, ER vet, or pet poison control -immediately. 888.426.4435 or 855.764.7661 are poison control hotlines.

-Warm car engines (in parked cars) attract cats and small wildlife, who may crawl up under the hood. Honk your horn before starting your car, as a precaution; the sound will usually scare them away.

-Keep your pets hydrated.

-If you are able, check in on your elderly neighbors and their pets. Kindness and compassion goes a long way, especially during extreme weather – and this week, coupled with the holidays.

If you have any concerns regarding the safety or well-being of an animal – or human – contact your local police departmenmt.