INGHAM COUNTY - As winter continues with frigid temperatures, it's important to understand the safety and well-being of pets.

Local animal shelters like the Ingham County Animal Shelter (ICAC) encourages safe pet care during these cold months and is continuing their Dog House Program.

This program takes place every winter and provides free dog houses to owners who are financially insecure with outdoor pets. ICAC also provides insulating materials like straw to help keep these animals warm and dry.

If you would like to donate a dog house to the shelter, please contact Kate Turner at 517.676.8318. Dog houses can also be dropped off at the shelter located in Mason on 600 Buhl Street, the Outreach Center at 826 West Saginaw Street in Lansing or you can request to have them picked up.

If you would like to donate to the shelter to purchase more dog houses, you can visit www.icasfund.org.

All households who decide to join the program will follow standard procedures and restrictions including filling out an application, an interview and proof of licensing. Dog houses are available on a first come, first serve basis and must be licensed in Ingham County.

If you would like to know more on discounted adoption fees or any other programs associated with Ingham County Animal Control, please contact them at 517.676.8370 or visit their website at www.ac.ingham.org. You can also stop by their shelter on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10:30 am to 5 pm and Wednesday from 10:30 am to 6 pm. The shelter is closed during county observed holidays.