GLADSTONE, Mo. — A Gladstone resident is speaking out after spending hours Saturday rescuing a dog found roaming the streets in freezing temperatures with a leash still attached—raising renewed concerns about pet safety during extreme cold and the legal responsibility of owners.
Leaving a pet chained or tethered outside in dangerously cold weather is not only irresponsible, it can be illegal under local animal welfare standards. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures places dogs at serious risk of hypothermia, frostbite, dehydration, and injury. Animal control officials routinely warn that owners must provide adequate shelter, warmth, food, and care—or face potential penalties.
According to the rescuer, the dog appeared frightened, underweight, and neglected. “I spent three and a half hours trying to find his owners,” the resident said. “I posted in three places on Facebook and got nothing. I took him to two locations to be scanned for a microchip—he doesn’t have one.”
With temperatures dropping and the dog too scared to enter buildings or even get into a car at first, the resident made the decision to take him to KC Pet Project, where staff could ensure he was warm, fed, and safe. “At least there, I knew he’d have a meal and a place out of the cold,” the rescuer said.
The dog, described as skinny with overgrown nails and in need of a bath, eventually warmed up and revealed a gentle temperament. “Once he felt safe, he was the sweetest boy I’ve ever been around,” the resident said. “But no dog should be terrified just trying to survive.”
The rescuer also addressed online comments wishing harm on whoever “stole” the dog. “No one stole him,” they said. “If you’re worried about your dog, microchip him or at least put a collar on him with contact information. That’s basic responsibility.” The resident added they are willing to pay to have the dog neutered—something they say should have already been done, especially if the dog is allowed to roam.
The message to pet owners is blunt: “Go pick him up from KC Pet Project and take better care of him. Do better. He deserves better.”
As winter conditions continue, officials and advocates urge residents to bring pets indoors, ensure identification is up to date, and remember that chaining a dog outside in extreme cold isn’t just cruel—it can put you on the wrong side of the law.
Here is the lil guy, in case the owners want to identify him.
Comments