Gabby is a 5-year-old basset hound whose ears truly do "hang low." Everyone who encounters Gabby is drawn to her gentle brown eyes and can't resist giving her soft, velvety ears an affectionate rub.

Gabby thoroughly enjoys the attention and loves to nuzzle her head on your lap. Because Gabby was a stray, her past is somewhat of a mystery. She seems to look forward to going for walks on her leash, however, and she does know "sit."

When Gabby encounters other dogs, whether they are big or small, she always greets them with a playful bow and a happy grin. She enjoys daintily munching on doggy biscuits and sees no shame in throwing herself at your feet and rolling over for a belly rub. If you are looking for an affectionate friend to adopt, come meet Gabby and get your new year off to a great start!

Gabby is available for adoption at the Humane League of Lancaster County, 2195 Lincoln Highway East. Shelter hours are noon to 6 p.m. Monday; noon to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; noon to 5 p.m. Friday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The shelter is closed Wednesday. Dog admission hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday; and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Dec. 24 to 31, the league received 52 dogs and 101 cats. Twenty dogs and 56 cats were adopted; 10 stray dogs were reclaimed by their owners. Previously featured pet Winkey is still waiting for a new home.

When temperatures drop below freezing, even a fur coat cannot protect pets from frostbite and hypothermia. All outdoor pets should be brought indoors to protect them from the frigid temperatures. If the pet cannot be brought indoors, state law mandates that you provide protection for the animal from the wind and cold temperatures.

Outdoor dogs require a draft-free and dry dog house that is raised off of the ground. The inside floor must be covered with cedar shavings or straw. Blankets can become wet, and may lower the dog's body temperature and should not be used.

The dog house should be small enough that the dog can warm it with her body heat and an unheated garage is not safe because she cannot produce enough heat to warm such a large space.The house should also face away from the wind, and the doorway must be covered with heavy plastic or a flap so that the animal is protected from water and wind.

If you see a pet without proper protection from the weather, contact the Humane League, 393-6551.