Two men were arrested after Bridgeport police said they left three dogs outside in the freezing cold.

It happened in the 400 block of Union Avenue Friday around 10 p.m. when the temperature, factoring in wind chill, was -11 degrees.

Detectives say 72-year-old Benito Islesias is the owner of the pit bulls, while 46-year-old Rusty Rodriguez tried to hide one of the animals in a basement when police arrived.

Police say the dogs are now "safe and sound" and under the care of Bridgeport Animal Control. Detective Jeff Holtz says it's illegal to leave animals outside for more than a few minutes during freezing-cold conditions.

"The police department wants the public to know that these conditions this weekend are conditions in which a human being shouldn't be outside for a minimal amount of time, much less an animal," Holtz said.

"It's gladdening to know that they're here, that they are safe, they have warmed up and they had a nice full belly overnight. So if you do see dogs outside in the cold, make sure that you report it right away," urged Bridgeport Animal Control Officer Jennifer Wallace.

Police say both Islesias and Rodriguez were charged with animal cruelty and were freed after posting $2,000 bond.