Smithtown, NY - October 14, 2015 - According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, over 36 percent of households in America own dogs and 30 percent own cats. However, not every owner knows the proper procedure for winter pet care; every year thousands of companion and stray animals die from being left out in this extreme weather. These cases are investigated more by police and animal control agencies than any other form of animal abuse. A common misconception is the belief that the fur on animals’ back will insulate them from suffering in the cold winter temperatures or upcoming storm. However, without proper shelter, food and water, these domesticated animals’ chances of survival in frigid temperatures is greatly decreased. Guardians of Rescue, a nation-wide animal rescue organization is expanding their “Gimme Shelter Program” to avoid the suffering of innocent animals this winter season. 

"The winter of 2014 was brutally cold, and the snow and ice lead to many unnecessary deaths of cats and dogs, who were left outdoors without proper housing, food or water. Guardians are boots on the ground for these animals,” said Robert Misseri, president of the Guardians of Rescue. "Unfortunately, it’s challenging when you have lack of funds. Our members deliver houses to some of the worst crime areas in the country. Trying to convince owners to allow us to put houses there is not an easy task.”

Guardians of Rescue, a national animal welfare and advocacy organization works to protect and improve the lives of companion animals less fortunate than our own. Guardians of Rescue will be distributing:

• Insulated houses for dogs and outdoor cats 
• For those houses that can, electric safety heaters and solar heaters will be installed
• Food is fuel, and a proper diet is essential for all animals who are left in the elements

Feral cats are no exception. These "undercats" of the world suffer greatly. While seeking warmth and shelter, they can easily be trapped by the snow piles that plows create. Guardians of Rescue dig out many cat colonies each winter. 

To prevent your pet from suffering this winter, the American Veterinary Medical Association recommends these quick tips: 

• Microchip. Many dogs and cats get lost finding their way home in the winter due to the snow and ice covering their usual scents.
• Be Prepared. Snow and ice can lead to power outages. Make sure you have enough food, water and medicine to last through an unexpected power loss. 
• Wipe Down. Salt and antifreeze on the roads and sidewalks can be poisonous if your pet licks her feet after walking. Be sure to wipe down your pet’s paws and tummy to avoid chemicals. 

"Our Gimme Shelter program has increased through awareness. This year we are gearing up for yet another cold, harsh winter,” said Misseri. "We need to get a jump start now, by asking everyone to donate whatever they can to help make the lives of these poor, neglected animals better.”

Guardians of Rescue provides assistance to animals out on the streets, helping to rescue them, provide medical care, food and shelter, and find foster-home placements. They are also instrumental in helping military members with their pets, and to provide service dogs to veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. To learn more, get involved, or to make a donation to support the Guardians of Rescue, log onto www.guardiansofrescue.org.

About Guardians of Rescue
Based in New York, Guardians of Rescue is an organization whose mission is to protect the well being of all animals. They provide aid to animals in distress, including facilitating foster programs, rehabilitation, assisting other rescue groups, and providing support to families, both military and not, who need assistance due to economic factors. To learn more about Guardians of Rescue, visit online.

Source: 
AVMA. Cold Weather Pet Safety.
Farmer’s Almanac. Winter 2015 – 2016.