01/24/2026
Message from City of Nederland Police Department/Animal Control:
NOTE, if your animal is tied up outside (unsupervised for long term) without access to shelter from the cold weather, YOU ARE SUBJECT TO BE FINED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY UNDER THE SAFE OUTDOOR DOGS ACT (Chapter 821, Health & Safety Code). The Nederland Police Department and Animal Control will be monitoring during the upcoming freeze as you MUST provide your animal with proper outdoor shelter. We highly recommend your pet is brought inside to a shed, garage, or the best choice is inside the home.
• If you are cold, your pet is cold.
• Bring your pet inside, especially at night.
• When outside, provide them with warm/dry shelter. (Roof, 4 walls, enclosed doorway to keep the wind out)
• The dog should be able to stand, sit, turn, and lay down comfortably with no part hanging out of the shelter
• Your dog will need something dry and insulating inside the doghouse or they can still freeze to death. Straw (not hay) is excellent at insulating without getting wet. If you MUST use blankets, be sure to check them regularly as they collect moisture which will chill your dog.
Stay safe, stay warm, and be smart. If you see something, say something and report it to the City of Nederland Police Department or Animal Control at 409-722-4965 so we can take care of and address the situation before the temperature drops.