Heating A Doghouse:

Question
Hi, I have two dogs that I love very much but am concerned about them staying warm this winter. Last winter I kept them in the house because they were still puppies but they are to big and rowdy to keep in this winter. I have built them a doghouse with walls and have put insulation between the walls and outside fiberglass siding. I intended to buy a petcool climate control system but can't afford one right now. My question is this, if I put an infrared heating lamp through the top of the doghouse will the infrared or the heat from it cause the dogs any harm? The doghouse is 5x3.5x4 feet with a clear insulated flap on the door. This might sound like a foolish question but I am so worried that my dogs might get cold. Thanks in advance for your answer.   Marie of Tennessee

Answer
I would be very careful about heat lamps.  We had an unfortunate accident last year and one of our dog's kennels caught on fire.  If the house is insulated and you provide plenty of blankets, they should be pretty good.  I would advise you to investigate some other type of heating versus a lamp.