Pets Must Be Protected When Outdoors In Winter Weather: Howard County Police

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — With a wintry mix of weather forecast to pass through Maryland this weekend, Howard County Police reminds pet owners that animals kept outside cannot be tethered without direct supervision and they must have access to shelter, bedding and an unfrozen water source at all times, per the law.

"Keep in mind, the above requirements are the bare minimum. If it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your dog or cat. Howard County Animal Control urges everyone to bring their companion animals inside," the Howard County Police Department stated.

Two to 6 inches of snow and ice are expected to blanket the area west of I-15. To the east, heavy rains will likely reduce accumulations. If a low pressure system passes further south, cold air could linger over the metro-D.C. region, especially to the west of I-95, according to the National Weather Service.

"The most significant wintry effects from the storm will be limited to about 12 hours or so from late Saturday into Sunday evening," said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Courtney Travis.

Residents are encouraged to call 410-313-2780 to report violations, which can include civil citations, criminal charges and/or impoundment of an animal.

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Winter Storm Heads To MD: New Weekend Forecast Released