Count me in as one who does not approve of keeping dogs outdoors - esp. not the way your daughter's friend is doing it. I have someone in my life that did this for years and it drove me crazy. If I had to have my dogs outside, I wouldn't have them. Sorry, hot button issue for me! (Edited to add: I understand when people have working dogs, like on a farm where they are out with the other animals all day and then sleep in a warm barn with them. No offense to anyone with working dogs meant! )
I hope your daughter is able to sit down with her friend and gently explain why this is not the best situation for these little creatures. Maybe she could get her a couple of books on pet care for Christmas - ones that explain how to board them and has a section on outdoor no-nos. That small of a breed? It hurts my heart to think of those poor babies shivering.
What about this: Does your daughter have enough money (Or could she pool together with other animal lovers at work?) that she could get the dog groomed as a Christmas gift? Maybe if they see the dog groomed, they will understand how dire unkempt coats can become.
Another suggestion: Maybe she could go to one of the local pet supply stores with her and walk around looking at things to help her understand what she needs to be a responsible pet owner, but under the guise of "shopping"?
I hope she is able to help her friend see that she needs to be a good mom to her animals - they aren't lawn gnomes that you buy and stick outside to be beaten down by the elements day in and day out.
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