Pet Safety Tips
Pets can find anything in the home to play with, therefore it's essential to be sure to keep them away from items such as foods that can make them sick or plants that could be poisonous. The NC State College of Veterinary Medicine provides some useful safety tips.
The fireworks can be scary for pets, so they should be in a safe place such as a crate or a secure room during fireworks display. They should also wear a collar with identification tags and be microchipped.
Check the Garage
The garage could pose a risk for pets. It can contain everything from poisonous plants to fertilizers and chemicals. Make sure that all chemicals and cleaning products are kept in an enclosed cabinet with a latch that pets can't reach. Make sure that gas tanks, propane canisters, and other items that ignite are not kept in the garage, or within easy reach of curious cats or dogs.
Take a picture of you and your pet inside your evacuation kit. This will help other people identify you in the event you become separated. Include your pet's favorite bedding or toys to reduce stress during evacuation.
List local veterinary clinics, animal shelters and other accommodations for pets along evacuation routes. Keep a harness and a leash specific to your pet in the house as they are vital tools for keeping them under control. Also, ensure that your pet is microchipped or has a collar that has current contact information.
Be aware that overheating can happen in humans and pets alike during hot weather. Drowsy panting, heavy panting and a heightened heart rate are all indications of excessive heat. Pets with respiratory issues or those who are brachycephalic (flat-faced) are at a higher risk of overheating.
Also, make sure that garbage cans or recycle bins are covered to prevent rodents from accessing them. Keep trash inside containers that can't be accessed by pets. Also, remove any items that could be poisonous and choke you, like buttons or strings. For cats, be sure to seal the lids of your toilets because the smell of a full tank can make them want to drink its contents. This could kill them!
Create a Plan for a Disaster Plan
If you live in a region that is prone to natural disasters it's important that your pets are prepared as well. Make a disaster plan and create an emergency kit.
Having a plan in place can aid you and your pet survive during an evacuation, especially for the kinds of disasters that have little warning. You can also create an inventory of friends, neighbors or family members who are willing to take your pets in the case of an emergency.
It is also important to include a current photo and a description of your pet should they are lost or separated from you during an emergency. You should also keep your pet on leash all the time or in a pet carrier and keep them close by during emergencies. This will make sure that they don't run off or injure themselves.
Even the most docile animals can become aggressive or defensive during a disaster. In the situation of a fire for instance, your pets could be confused because the scent markers that normally indicate their home have been destroyed away. Keep your pets inside and under control at all times in the event of an emergency. Also, monitor the quality of the air as smoke can be harmful to pets and humans.
Include essential items like food, water and medicine in an airtight, waterproof container. Include a harness and a leash that is appropriate for your pet, a carrier that fits their size, a blanket or a pet's favorite toy, for comfort in a stressful circumstance. You should also include a manual can open in the event that your pet consumes canned food. Also, make sure you make sure to check your pet's supplies often to ensure that all of the equipment is fresh and still functional.
Keep your pets inside
Some pet owners feel that it is best to keep their pets inside during the holidays. care pets of fireworks and loud noises can be scary for pets, especially smaller breeds or those who are already anxious. They may also be affected by the heat of outdoor celebrations and events.
Keeping your dog and cat inside during these occasions can also protect them from being exposed to potential threats, such as exploding fireworks or being struck by a lighted pumpkin. Even if they're in a fenced-in yard or on a leash dogs and cats that are left outside could be attacked by other animals or encounter other dogs.
Fireworks, especially the ones that are lit can be extremely hazardous for pets, and can result in severe burns or even trauma. The noises and light can cause pets to become confused and lost, or scared. If your dog is scared of fireworks, get him exercise prior to the fireworks begin and try to keep him in the house with you or a trusted neighbour during the time they are taking place.
If your pet is chewer, make sure to move things that are easily swallowed out of reach before you leave for a few days like underwear, strings, small bones toys, or other items from the trash. These items can be harmful if they are ingested which can cause stomach discomfort. Certain plants that are seasonal are poisonous to cats and dogs such as mistletoe, holly and poinsettias.
Certain breeds of cats and dogs that have flat faces, such as pugs and Persians are susceptible to heat stroke when left alone in hot temperatures. Keep them indoors in the hottest times of the day. Provide them with plenty of shade and cool water, as well as food. Avoid leaving them in parked vehicles in case this leads to heat stroke.
Avoid Walking on Frozen Water
In the winter the canals and lakes that are frozen are a popular destination for children and pets. These bodies of water are dangerous. In no way should anyone walk on ice or allow their pet to do the same. It is difficult to determine the strength of ice with visual inspection, and temperature fluctuations could alter its consistency. River ice is often affected by currents, which could cause it to weaken or even break. Call 911 immediately if someone is injured by the ice. Do not try to rescue them yourself; this could cause more harm.
In addition pets should be kept on a leash near bodies of water and should not be encouraged to swim in lakes or ponds. Dogs can ingest water that is contaminated and then contract Leptospirosis, a potentially fatal bacteria-borne disease that can affect the kidneys and other organs. Children may also be affected by the disease when they come in contact with the urine of animals and dogs.
Some plants and trees can be harmful to pets. They must be avoided. Japanese yews, in particular, contain toxins which can cause blood pressure and heart rate issues in cats and dogs when they are consumed. The bulbs of tulips, daffodils and other flowers are poisonous and can lead to stomach upset and obstruction issues in pets when they are taken in and eaten.
Animals behave differently after a disaster, flash flood or storm. When they're fearful or uneasy they might act aggressively. When pets are outside, it is a good idea to put them on leashes or in carriers and to be taught the basic safety guidelines. This involves teaching them how to interact with guests, children and strangers.
Make sure your pet is on an appropriate leash
Leashes are a kind of cord or rope that is affixed to the collar of a dog. It assists the owner in controlling it when walking. Leashes are vital for your pet's safety and protection.
Many cities have laws requiring dogs to be on leashes in public areas and parks. This is not just for your own security, but for the protection of other people and animals as well. The freedom dogs enjoy could lead to them getting hit by cars or even creating accidents. They may also be injured by other dogs and wildlife.
When a dog is not on a leash, they can sniff things that are bad for them, or even dangerous such as feces of other dogs or poisonous plants. They can also drink water that is contaminated and splash around in puddles that contain pesticides, or come across porcupines and get quills on their faces.
Leashes aren't just an obligation under law, but can also aid in training your dog, making them safer in everyday situations. They prevent them from being chased by other animals or people, running off into traffic areas or other unsafe places, eating or sniffing things they shouldn't, digging up lawns, and becoming lost on walks.
It's also crucial to have a leash because it makes you more visible to other people while walking your dog. Some people have a fear of dogs and are more likely to be scared or irritable when approached by one. Leashes are also useful for those suffering from allergies or sensitivity to certain scents.