Millcreek Animal Control Investigate possible Cruelty Case after Chihuahua Froze to Death

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Cindy Rossman is a self-proclaimed dog-lover.

But now, the Millcreek Police Department's Animal Control Division is investigating her for possible animal cruelty, after her chihuahua was found frozen to death Saturday morning.

Rossman claims her roommate let dog outside Friday night, and never let him back in.

"I went out for the evening," she explained. "Apparently she stayed home. By the time I came home, my boxer was outside. It looked like she was out for awhile because it looked like she had icicles on her face. I asked her where my chihuahua was, Peanut. And she said he was in the chair all covered up."

Thinking Peanut was nestled in blankets on the couch, Rossman says she went to bed. When she woke up the next morning, she found Peanut outside.  "I started calling him. He always comes to me and I didn't hear him," she said. "For some reason I went outside and I found his collar right outside and I started looking around, and found him out by my fence, frozen to the ground."

Rossman's situation is a sad reminder of just how important paying close attention to your pets can be. The ASPCA says pet owners should follow these guidelines during the winter months: If you have an outdoor cat or dog, keep them indoors, be aware of how long your pet can tolerate the cold, and don't leave your pets in the car, as it can be just as cold inside, as outside.

Ironically, Rossman says she rescued Peanut from an owner who was neglectful. She hopes her tragic story will serve as a lesson to all pet owners.    

"Please watch your dogs when it's really cold," she said. "Don't allow them to be out very long at all, because things like this can happen."



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