(UPDATED Jan. 5, 2017) ROCKVILLE, MD — With lows regularly dropping into the teens and 20s overnight and snow falling into Friday, Montgomery County authorities will be on the lookout for pets tied up and left unattended outside. Dog owners face a $500 fine for violating the anti-animal cruelty ordinance.

Montgomery County Animal Services Division said Thursday that its officers will enforce a county regulation that says, "a person must not tether a dog under circumstances that endanger its health, safety, or well-being including: unattended tethering of the dog during a weather emergency." Enforcement of the regulation goes into effect during periods of extreme cold, wind or heavy snow, which can all be harmful to dogs and other animals.

Animal Services officials reminds residents to be particularly careful with all pets during the blasts of cold weather. The best advice during periods of extreme weather conditions is to bring pets indoors. Even animals that are used to living outdoors can be susceptible to the dangers of cold weather. Livestock animals should have a place to get out of the wind and dry bedding should be provided to protect them from frostbite. If you see an animal left outside that appears to be in danger, call the Animal Services Division immediately at 301-279-8000.