MUSKEGON COUNTY, Mich. — Operation Solo is an organization in Muskegon County providing temporary assistance to owners that are struggling financially.
It has exactly what you need to keep your furry friends warm this winter.
As the temperatures continue to drop and snow begins to fall across West Michigan experts are reminding pet parents that furry friends need proper provisions and shelter to keep them safe outside.
“Operation Solo does not want dogs to be outside, we would prefer for every dog to be inside. But we know that's not the reality. So, we want to be here to support those people that have dogs outside and help the dogs. We want to improve the quality of care because we have seen a lot of dogs in the same county not have everything they need," Kendra Boos, Founder of Operation Solo, said.
Pets that live outside need an adequate shelter.
Operation solo is giving away these igloos for free based on advice from veterinarians.
“The igloo has a smaller opening there. It's not open for the elements to get in there easily protected. It helps keep them warm because of the structure of the igloo. And then it's also handy in the summer too, because when it gets hot outside, it helps cool the body down as well," Boos said.
Thanks to some generous donations the community organization also has bales of straw.
Experts agree that straw and not hay or blankets will help keep your pet’s body temperature regulated.
“If you are not going out every day, you should check on your dog. If you're not it gets wet. That's why we don't want blankets, and then the straw versus hay, hay can become moldy. The straw kind of repels the water. So, it helps keep the body temperature helps keep them warm," Boos said.
The igloos should be packed full of straw so dogs can make their own little nest.
Operation Solo has heated water bowls, tarp, toys, food, and everything you need to make sure your pet is comfortable over the next few months.
“We kind of want to assess the situation. We want to kind of see what they have and what they need, because we have other supplies as well, too. So it's not just like losing straws, but we want to come out to your house and we understand that transportation may be an issue. So, we plan to make deliveries.”
Every animal deserves to be protected and happy just like Solo was.
The community organization has about 30 igloos they are giving away right now.
Operation Solo is accepting donations of igloos and other supplies.
You can find a link to the organization’s Amazon Wishlist, here.
If you are someone you needs an igloo and straw email: operationsolo23@gmail.com
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