Dear Friends:

As you all know by now, more dogs have been shocked and killed due to stray voltage from city sidewalks from faulty or corroded wiring. We suspect that the recent snowstorm, and consequent icing, salting and melting, has aggravated the situation.

PLEASE be mindful of where you step when walking your dog. Do not walk near the bases of open light poles, and try to avoid stepping on the metal electric box covers on the sidewalk. If at all possible, avoid using metal leashes. Rubber boots on your dog (and you) "may" provide some protection, but should be no substitute for watching where you walk.

We're in the process of contacting Con Edison about this situation and will let you know what we find out. In the meantime, if you want to sign a petition urging the City of New York to address this problem immediately, click here.

If you've encountered a suspect "hot spot" in your neighborhood (a electrical pole where the panel is loose or open at the base, or any kind of opening from the sidewalk) please do the following:

• STAY AWAY FROM IT, AND KEEP YOUR DOG AND SMALL CHILDREN AWAY, TOO.
   
• Please email the exact location (borough, corner including cross-street, any landmarks such as "in front of ABC Grocery Store", etc.) to newyorktails@aol.com and we'll make sure to put them right into the hands of the inspectors at Con Ed. If you are comfortable doing so, please also send us your phone number in case they need further information.

For the most up-to-date news articles about stray voltage, visit www.infraSHOCK.com where you will also find a map of hot spots to avoid and a place to report hot spots that you and your dog encounter. You will also find useful tips on keeping your dog safe.

Very truly yours,
 
Diane West,
New York Tails

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