Windsor Humane Society rescues animals in the weather

During the frigid months, the Windsor Humane Society has been offering safe refuge for animals in need.

Since 1926, WHS has been providing stray and abused animals with help during the winter, when the freezing temperatures can pose many threats to their lives.

Tara Preston, an Animal Protections Officer at the Windsor Humane Society, said the shelter rescues more than just cats and dogs.

“We get various animals,” said Preston. “We get rabbits, Guinea pigs, pigeons, chickens, we get the odd fish in, we’ve had axolotls. We’ve had all sorts of animals. We don’t discriminate against them.”

According to the 2020 annual report made by the Humane Society, 290 dogs and 1867 cats were picked up as strays and brought to the shelter. Likewise, domestic and wildlife animals were brought to the shelter as strays in 2020.

According to the report, 33 dogs and 23 cats were brought in for emergency care.

Preston said animals can suffer from hypothermia and other conditions just like humans.

“Fortunately, here we don’t see too many cold related injuries,” said Preston. “But occasionally we’ll get wildlife if they’re already sick. They can get frozen extremities and that can be an issue.”

However, the snow and the cold can be filled with enjoyment for certain animals.

Carla Vlad’s dog, Trixie, loves to be outside during these months.

“She loves the snow,” said Vlad. “She loves to play around. She could be freezing her little booty off and she still wants to be outside.”

For more helpful animal tips, visit the Windsor Humane Society’s website.