Shield pets from cold

Thursday, Feb. 16, 2006

Cindy Lou Curtice

Maryland City

For those of you that keep your pet outdoors, keep this in mind. Some pets are better suited than others for living outdoors.

There is a common misconception that dogs will be fine if left outside.

This is not true. All pets need adequate shelter from the elements and insulation against cold weather. Pets should not be left outside for long periods in freezing weather. Like humans, they can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite.

Young and senior pets are especially at risk. Certain breeds, such as Huskies and Samoyeds are better suited to cold weather, but the majority of dogs need help and intervention.

Indoor accommodations are best during extreme temperature drops, but if that is not possible, set up a suitable house in an area protected from wind, rain and snow. Insulation, such as straw or blankets will help keep in body heat.

If your animal is prone to chewing, do not use blankets or material that can be ingested.

Cedar shavings can be irritating to the skin, so use with caution depending on the pet's hair coat. Fresh water is essential at all times. Pets are not able to get enough water from licking ice or eating snow.

The United Methodist Church on Brock Bridge Road will be holding its Annual Spaghetti Dinner from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Friday in the church social hall. The dinner will include salad, spaghetti, garlic bread, brownie and drink. Proceeds will benefit the United Women's budget and outreach program.

One of the outreach programs is providing food to Sarah's House one Wednesday a month. The cost of the dinner is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for children 4 and over and free for those under the age of 4. For information, call Pat Barger at 301-725-7435.

Registration for Maryland City Little League is being held from 1 to 4 p.m. every Saturday at the Sports Authority on Route 198 in the Corridor Shopping Center, next to Target. Maryland City Little League welcomes all boys and girls ages 5 to 16.

The league offers T-ball, coach-pitch baseball, minor, major, junior and senior baseball as well as girls minor, junior and senior softball. Bring a copy of your child's birth certificate to registration and three documents showing residence.

For information or to request a registration form by mail, please call Marvin Atwell at 240-381-4419 or by e-mail MCRCPREZ1@verizon.net.

Happy birthday to Rodney Atwell, who celebrated on Wednesday.