Expert: Tina Volpe - 1/12/2010

Question
Hello!
Every day on my way to work I drive by this property that has a metal kennel outside (maybe 10x6) It has a wooden doghouse inside the kennel and there is a german shepherd living there. I see him every day. I live in northern Virginia and it has gotten pretty cold here. The last weeks were below freezing. A couple days ago it was 15 degrees. I've seen the dog lying out there in the snow in the freezing cold. I have heard that as long as food and shelter is provided, it is ok. But I just can't understand how somebody can own a dog and constantly keep it outside in a 60sqf area no matter what the weather is. Maybe it's because in my opinion I would keep a dog as a companion and family member. And all of my family members live in my house. What's the point of having a dog if you keep it locked up outside all the time...
I never see the dog outside of the kennel, I never see anybody interact with him. He's just out there and I feel so sorry for him.
Is there anything wrong with that? Can I call animal control about this or is it really ok that he is being kept that way?
Thank you!

Answer
HI Manuela,

I think it is awesome that you noticed this and that you care.  If it were me, I'd knock on the door and explain that you personally think it is not right to leave a dog out in the cold like that, and he deserves better.  If nothing changes, I'd call the Humane Society of the US., or Animal Control, the latter being the last call you make.  Also, PETA usually has some good advice.  You can google either one of these groups.

I think some people just need to realize that what they are doing is wrong for the animal.  They really don't know it's wrong sometimes.  Or... don't bother to think about it.

I hope this helps!  And I hope that sweet dog gets a better living condition, thanks to you!

Tina Volpe