With cold temperatures predicted Wednesday evening into Thursday morning, the Animal Rescue League of Berks County has enacted Code Blue starting at 5pm on Wednesday, January 8 through 10am on Thursday, January 9, 2020.
In accordance with Bill #22, an amendment added to the City Code, Chapter 141, Part 2 Animals, Section 205 Caring for Animals in 2015, any person who owns, possesses, or has custody of a dog must bring the animal inside their residence for the duration of the code, except for supervised and necessary bathroom breaks and exercise.
Additionally, non-compliance can result in the animal being removed by an Animal Control Officer from the property and impounded at the Animal Rescue League of Berks County. Owners will have 48 hours after the code has been lifted to pick up their animal and will be subject to applicable sheltering fees.
Executive Director Alexis Pagoulatos notes that while the code is enforceable only within the City of Reading, the recommendation applies to all pet owners in Berks County. “We hope that all Berks County pet owners take this cold weather seriously and bring their pets inside.”
Any person witnessing an unsupervised dog left outside in the elements within the City of Reading should call the Animal Rescue League of Berks County at 610-587-3659.
Temperatures are expected to be 38° during the day and 19° Wednesday. Thursday is expected to be 35°during the day and 27° at night.
