Code Blue warning extended in Reading

The Animal Rescue League of Berks County has extended its Code Blue warning for dog owners in Reading until Wednesday at noon.

The league originally issued the warning on Friday, effective through this afternoon.

Anyone who owns, possesses or has custody of a dog must bring the animal inside their residence for the duration of the code, except for supervised and necessary bathroom breaks and exercise.

Additionally, noncompliance can result in the animal being removed from the property and impounded at the rescue league. Owners will have 48 hours after the code has been lifted to pick up their animal and will be subject to applicable boarding fees.

While the code is enforceable only within Reading, officials recommend all pet owners follow the warning.

“The extremely cold temperatures predicted for our area over the next days are potentially life-threatening for animals left outside to fend for themselves,” officials said in a release. “We hope city residents take this threat seriously and bring their pets inside.”

Anyone witnessing an unsupervised dog left outside in the elements in Reading should call the Animal Rescue League at 610-373-8830.