Shreveport Pet Owners: Felony Charges for Leaving Animals in the Cold

The recent cold snap served as a serious warning. While Shreveport barely tiptoed around freezing temperatures, it was enough to spark worry about pets left outside without proper protection.

Unfortunately, the real brutal cold is still ahead of us in January and February. When those colder temps hit, the Louisiana SPCA gets flooded with calls, and who wouldn't be furious seeing animals suffering in the cold?

Everyone in the Ark-La-Tex must understand the specific rules that govern animal welfare during winter weather.

The Legal Louisiana Threshold: Freeze Advisory

Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to wait for single-digit weather to report animal cruelty. The Louisiana SPCA makes it clear: It is illegal to leave pets outside when the National Weather Service issues a freeze advisory. This isn't just a guideline; it's a specific legal threshold.

In a situation where the weather is dipping close to freezing, Animal Control Officers will have to treat all calls regarding unsheltered or chained animals as emergency calls. Your pets simply cannot handle these extreme temperatures.

Severe Consequences for Owners

Owners who fail to bring their pets inside during a freeze advisory can face serious legal consequences. If an animal is found outside without proper shelter and is deemed to be suffering, it can be seized immediately.

Furthermore, the owner can be charged with a felony offense of animal cruelty. Cruelty to animals is defined as the intentional or criminally negligent mistreatment of any animal whereby unjustifiable physical pain, suffering, or death is caused or permitted. If you leave your pet outside and exposed during a freeze advisory, you are permitting that suffering.

What to Do If You See Cruelty

Do not assume someone else has reported the cruelty. If you see an animal outside that has no shelter or is chained up during a cold snap, you must make the call and report it. Your report is completely confidential.

If you have trouble reaching someone on the phone immediately, leave a detailed message. You should provide key information like the pet's address and where it is specifically located on the property. The more details you provide, the faster help can arrive.

A Note on Neighborhood Safety

Please remember that feral cats in your neighborhood will often seek warmth in your car. Your car engine block retains heat after you turn the vehicle off. Before starting your car, especially in the early morning, please blow your horn or tap on the hood to give feral cats a chance to exit safely before you drive away.