The Animal Rescue League of Berks County has enacted a Code Red Ordinance for the City of Reading over the next for days due to a sustained heat index of 95 degrees forecast for the region. The Code Red has been issued for the following days:
- Tuesday, August 10 from 12pm – 6pm
- Wednesday, August 11 from 12pm – 7pm
- Thursday, August 12 from 10am – 7pm
- Friday, August 13 from 10am – 7pm
Under the 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 boarding fees.
“High temperatures and humidity can cause animals to overheat, which can lead to serious health complications,” said Dr. Jason Banning, Medical Director at the ARL.
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 610-373-8830.
