Nassau County, NY - January 21, 2016 - In anticipation of the approaching blizzard the Nassau County SPCA urges pet owners to make preparations ahead of the storm to keep their families and pets safe.

The most important thing pet owners should do is to bring their pets indoors, if conditions are unsafe for humans, they are also unsafe for pets.

Always bring pets, indoors, including outdoor cats, at the first sign or warning of a storm. A snow storm is no place a pet.

Don't let your dog off the leash after heavy snowfall. Dogs can lose their scent during winter storms and easily become lost. Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification. Deep snow cover can confuse a pet and cover their familiar scent landmarks.  It is easier, and more dangerous, for your pet to be lost in snowy weather so keep an eye on them at all times when outdoors.

Stock up ahead of time on all pet food and medicine your animals may need-travel may be much more difficult or impossible.

Prepare for a power outage, especially if your family includes fish, reptiles or pocket pets.

Keep a pet emergency kit and supplies handy with items such as medical records, water, pet food and medications, and pet first aid supplies.

Clean off your dog's paws with a moist washcloth after going outside. Snow-melting salt can be very painful to dogs' feet and can make them ill when ingested.

Have a coat and booties ready for any dog that needs them. Be ready to protect your pets from very strong wind and cold.

The Nassau County SPCA Pet Safe urges pet owners to develop an emergency plan that accounts for the safety of their animals and to stay up to date on storm warnings in their area. Arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. Do not leave your pets behind. 

About Nassau County SPCA 
Located in Nassau County, New York, The Nassau County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a 501(c) (3), nonprofit organization originally designed to protect animals in the county from abuse and neglect, and to provide basic welfare. We hold special authority to enforce NYS Agriculture & Markets Law, and all other state and local humane laws. We are the only animal protection agency officially designated to operate within the county's borders.

The NCSPCA is a volunteer organization dedicated to the rescue, care and placement of needy animals. The Society is run entirely by unpaid volunteers and its operations have been historically funded through contributions solicited from the public and through corporate grants.

The NCSPCA receives no public funding, is in no way affiliated with, a subdivision of or funded by any other local, state or national organization and every contribution, large or small, helps to provide the critical care needed to help homeless, abused and neglected animals in Nassau County. The continued success of each program relies entirely on donations. No money given to any other spca organization aids or benefits the NCSPCA. Your generous contribution will help the NCSPCA in all of its efforts. Visit www.nassaucountyspca.org.