Pet Safety Tips
It is essential to keep your pets away from poisonous plants and foods which could cause them to become sick. The NC State College of Veterinary Medicine provides some safety guidelines.
Fireworks can be scary for pets. They should therefore be kept in a secure space such as a crate, or a room secured with a lock during fireworks display. They should wear a collar that has identification tags and be microchipped.
Check the Garage
The garage is a storehouse of potential dangers for pets from plants that are poisonous to animals to fertilizers and chemicals. Ensure that all cleaning products and chemicals are kept in a cabinet with an opening that pets cannot reach. Make sure that gas tanks, propane canisters and other flammable objects are not stored in the garage, or within easy reach, of curious cats or dogs.
Take a photo of you and your pet in your kit for evacuation to help others to identify you if you are separated. Include your pet's bedding or toys to alleviate stress during evacuation.
Make a list of local vet clinics, animal shelters, and other pet-friendly facilities along evacuation routes. Keep a leash and harness that is specific to your pet on hand 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.
Remember that hot weather can quickly result in overheating for humans and pets. Overheating can be characterized by heavy panting, drooling, and an increased heart rate. Pets with respiratory problems or those who are brachycephalic (flat-faced) are particularly at risk of overheating.
Last but not least, cover garbage bins and recycling bins to keep rodents from accessing them. Keep garbage in containers that can't be accessed by pets, and remove any items that could be poisonous and choke you, such as buttons or string. For cats, be sure to seal the lids of your toilets, as the yucky smell of a tank full of water can encourage them to drink the contents, which could cause death!
Create a Disaster Plan
If you live in a region that is prone to natural disasters it is essential that your pets are protected too. You can accomplish this by drafting an emergency plan and creating an emergency kit for pets.
This plan can assist you and your pet make it through an evacuation, especially for catastrophes that strike without warning. You could also create an inventory of your family members, friends, or neighbors who are willing to accommodate your pets during an emergency.
Include a picture and a description in case your pet gets lost or separated from the owner in the course of a disaster. It is also important to keep your pet on leash at all times or in a pet carrier, and keep them close in times of emergency. This will help you ensure that they don't wander off or get injured.
Be aware that the behavior of animals can drastically change during a disaster, and even the most docile pets may become aggressive or defensive. In care pet of a fire, for instance, your pet may be disorientated because the scent markers that usually signify their home have been burned away. Make sure that your pets are kept in a safe place and under direct supervision at all times during a disaster, and always be aware of the quality of air since smoke can harm humans and pets alike.
When you're preparing your pet's disaster kit, make sure to include essential items like food, water medicines, and first aid supplies in an airtight and waterproof container. You should also include a leash, harness and pet carrier that can fit the pet, as well as blanket, a pet bed or favorite toy that might provide comfort in stressful situations. You should also include a manual can open when your pet is fed canned food. Be sure to check your pet's supplies often to ensure that all the items are in good condition and are usable.
Keep your pets indoors
Some pet owners believe that it is best to keep their pets indoors during the holidays. The sound of fireworks and loud noises can be extremely terrifying for pets, particularly smaller breeds or those who are already anxious. They can also suffer from the heat of parades and other outdoor celebrations and occasions.
Keeping your dog and cat in the house during these events will also help keep them from being exposed to potential threats, such as exploding fireworks or being struck by a lit Jack-o-lantern. Even if they're inside a fenced-in backyard or on a leash, pets and cats who are who are outside could be attacked by other animals or come into contact with other dogs.
Fireworks, particularly those that are lit are extremely dangerous for pets, and can result in severe burns or even trauma. The loudness and brights can also disturb pets who may become lost, confused or even scared. If your dog is scared of fireworks, try to get him exercise prior to the fireworks start and keep him in the company of you or a trusted neighbor during the celebrations.
If your pet chews, get items that are easily swallowed like string, small bones or toys, out of reach, before you leave for a few days. These can be harmful if they are ingested and cause stomach upset. Certain seasonal plants like poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe are poisonous to dogs and cats.
Some dogs and cats that have flat faces like pugs and Persians are susceptible to heat stroke if left alone in hot weather. It is essential to keep them inside during the hottest times of the day and provide plenty of shady spots for them as well as cool water and food, and avoid leaving them in vehicles that are parked since this can cause fatal heat stroke.
Beware of walking on Frozen Water
In winter, frozen lakes, ponds and canals can be tempting to both children and pets. These bodies of water can be dangerous. People should never walk out on the ice or follow their pets onto the ice under any circumstance. The strength of the ice is difficult to judge by eye, and temperature fluctuations may alter its elasticity. Ice from rivers is frequently affected by currents, which can make it weaker and even break. Make sure to call 911 immediately if a person falls through the ice. Do not try to rescue them yourself. This could make the situation worse.
Additionally, dogs should be kept on leashes close to water bodies and should not be enticed to swim in ponds or lakes. Dogs can swallow contaminated water and contract Leptospirosis, a potentially fatal bacteria that can infect the kidneys and other organs. Children can also be infected by the disease if they contact urine from infected animals and dogs.
Some plants and trees can be toxic to pets. They must be avoided. In particular, Japanese yews contain toxins that can cause blood pressure and heart rate issues in cats and dogs ingestion. Daffodils, tulips, and many other flowers have poisonous bulbs that can cause stomach upset and obstruction issues in pets if dug up and consumed.
Animals' behaviour may change drastically after a catastrophe, a flash flood or storm. They can be aggressive or become fearful when they're scared or unfamiliar with new situations. When pets are outside it is recommended to put them in leashes or carriers and to learn basic safety guidelines. This includes teaching them how to behave around children, guests and strangers.
Make sure your pet has a Leash
A leash is a string or rope that is affixed to the collar of a dog that allows the owner to control it during walks. Leashes are essential for your pet's security and protection.
Many cities have laws requiring dogs to be on leashes in public spaces and parks. This is not only to protect you, but also for the safety of other people and animals. Allowing dogs to run freely can lead to them being struck by cars or creating accidents. They could also be injured by other dogs or wildlife.
When a dog is not on a leash, they can sniff out things that could be harmful to them, or even dangerous. For instance, other people's feces and poisonous plants. They may also drink contaminated water or puddles containing pesticides, or encounter porcupines and get quills in their faces.
Leashes aren't just legally required, but they can also help you train your dog, ensuring that they are safe in everyday situations. They keep them from chasing other animals and people, escaping into traffic areas or other dangerous areas, eating or sniffing things they shouldn't, digging up lawns and being lost on walks.
Leashes are also important as they allow you to be seen while walking your dog. Some people are scared of dogs and will be scared or angry when one approaches them. Leashes are also helpful for those with a sensitivity to certain smells or who are allergic to dogs.