Dog in empty lot

I figure this forum is probably the best place to ask this....

There is an empty, but not abandoned, lot on my block. I just noticed this weekend that there now seems to be a dog living in there. I assume that the owner is trying to prevent trespassing and dumping.

Here's the thing - the lot has no trees and therefore no shade. I looked to see if the dog has a doghouse or any form of shelter and didn't see any. I really only noticed it because I saw someone feeding him through the fence.

Are there laws regarding keeping a dog in an outdoor area and providing shelter?

Call 311. There are laws regarding shelter. One of my neighbors had a dog outside all night in the freezing cold and was reported. Inspectors were sent to make sure the dog had adequate food and shelter, including interviewing his landlord to verify that the dog was allowed inside. You can report this anonymously.

Ditto to what Flexi said. There must be adequate food, shelter and water for animals otherwise there is a visit from the ASPCA. If you are worried about the dog, please call 311 and report ASAP. This is not an unusual event and it continues to amaze me that people think nothing of just leaving an animal exposed to the elements and with little or no necessities. Would like to catch the "owner" and leave him/her there under the same conditions.

Just make sure you stay on top of the ASPCA, they're not always good about following up on reports like this.