The Moose Jaw Humane Society stays particularly active this time of year, due to more animals getting dropped off by people.

“Once those temp start to drop, people start to feel sorry for the cats and we do notice a dramatic increase in the number of stray cats that come into the shelter,” said Dana Haukaas, Administrative Assistant and Event Coordinator for the Moose Jaw Humane Society.

“As for the dogs, it’s not necessarily the colder weather that brings them in but maybe that windier weather that comes with the fall and maybe the gates aren't latched properly and the wind blows them open.”

Haukaas also talked about caring for dogs during the winter. She said if you let your dog stay in the backyard for long, you should give them protection from the weather.

Also, if the dog stays out for a significant amount of time, make sure they have some water. She adds that due to the colder weather and the negative temperatures, if the water freezes outside, it’s best to keep your dog inside more.

One more thing she talked about was how the cold affects your pets lungs. She said a good rule of thumb would be if your lungs are stiff or hurt in the cold when running, your pet would feel the same, which is around that -15 degrees point.

The Humane Society is also always looking for donations. They will take what they can accept.

“What we never say no to the wet food, and the patée wet cat food is the easiest for us to serve to all types of cats,” explained Haukaas. “We never say no to bedding either so if you have some old sheets or towel. Quilts, comforters, anything like that.”