Nova Scotia SPCA Paw Prints Newsletter Dec. 2009: "Cold Weather Precautions. Dogs kept outdoors during the winter months need a dry doghouse placed in a dog run or fenced yard. The house should be protected from the wind and raised off the ground. If a doghouse is unavailable, make sure your dog has access to a shed, garage, or other area where he will be protected from the wind and cold. Outdoor dogs require extra food in the winter and fresh, unfrozen water. During extreme temperatures BE KIND and bring your dog inside where it is warm."
http://www.capebretonpost.com/Living/Family/2010-02-05/article-837206/SPCA-investigating-after-dead-dog-found-outside/1

Compare the Nova Scotia SPCA's p.r. to this BC SPCA "Animal Care" item which was widely reprinted by many BC newspapers when sent out by the BC SPCA as a press release this past Winter. It should surprise no one that similar businesses have similar business practices, advertising, and p.r. P.R. like that of the N.S. SPCA and the B.C. SPCA is the industry norm.

http://www.spca.bc.ca/assets/documents/pet-care/dogcaresheetpublic.pdf

"The BC SPCA is strongly apposed to having your dog live outside but if this is your only option, an outdoor kennel should be weather- and
draft- proof, situated in a dry spot, elevated, have insulated walls and flooring and plenty of dry bedding inside. Outdoor dogs should always have access to fresh water. Dogs are extremely social animals and need lots of contact with humans and other dogs. If your dog sleeps outdoors, make sure that he is brought into the home daily to interact with his “pack.”

And from the North Shore News:

Published: Sunday, December 21, 2008
"With frosty temperatures sticking around, the BC SPCA urges pet guardians to ensure their animals are safe and warm.

In a press release, general manager of community relations for the BC SPCA, Lorie Chortyk, noted that because we live in a milder part of the province, we often don't think about the serious risks that cold weather poses to our pets. She said people should take steps to ensure their animals are appropriately cared for by bringing them indoors, and if that isn't possible to make sure they have insulated housing that is protected from winds.

The organization is opposed to keeping dogs permanently outdoors, however, some pet guardians still favour this practice. In this case, the dog must have shelter that protects him from heat, cold and dampness and is appropriate to his weight and coat. To accomplish this, the shelter should be elevated, insulated, ventilated and regularly cleaned. It must also allow him to sit, stand, lie down and turn around freely and easily.

Aside from providing adequate and appropriate shelter for your dog, you must also ensure he has ready access to fresh water; since animals burn more calories in cold weather, your dog may also require more food at this time of year."