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Family pets are often treated like members of the family. Treat your pet as your children when it comes to safety. They’re curious and playful, so it is easy for them go get into dangerous predicaments. They explore the world by chewing things that can harm them if swallowed. This article will focus on how to keep your pets safe.
Cats and dogs have been bred as domestic animals for hundreds of years, but we must always remember their roots go back to primitive days when they ran wild. This means your pet may not always act civilized and obedient.
The greatest danger to household pets is when their owners allow them to wander and fend for themselves, whether it is for a few minutes or hours or days at a time. Though it is easier to open the door and let your pet out on a dark, rainy night than to dress and take them for a walk, it is a very unsafe practice. Household pets are at more of a disadvantage than dogs or cats that have been raised on the streets. They can easily fall victim to multiple dangers.
The biggest danger to your pet when he wanders the street is moving vehicles. Black pets are hard to see on dark, stormy nights. The number one killer of dark-colored pets that is non-age related, is motorized vehicles. White pets are often not seen in winter months when they blend into the snow-covered landscape.
Dogs and cats are very territorial. If your pet wanders into another’s domain, he may be injured or killed in a fight. Wild animals can also attack pets. Owls, raccoons, foxes, wolves, cougars, porcupines and skunks can be a threat to your pet, depending on where you live.
Pets can also be harmed or killed by cruel people. Many people are perfectionists where their yards are concerned. They get angry when dogs and cats wander onto their property. Some peer out their windows late at night, pellet guns in hand, waiting for an unsuspecting pet to wander by. Other people are just heartless. Since your pet has no reason to feel threatened by strangers, they may find themselves captured by someone who enjoys torturing animals.
Pets often become lost. We have all heard about pets that have traveled incredible distances to be reunited with their beloved masters. Don’t rely on your pet to be able to successfully perform such a feat. Many dogs and cats wander away when they’re young, never to be seen again. A variety of things can happen to lost pets - they die of hypothermia, starvation or accidents. Well-meaning people who don’t realize they are trying to find their way home often adopt them.
Fences do not deter some dogs. In this case, an invisible fence is an option. An invisible fence is a thin antenna that is buried around the perimeter of your property. Your dog wears a collar with a transistorized radio receiver. A radio transmitter is in a nearby location, such as a garage or basement. It sends signals through the invisible fence. When your dog comes within a pre-determined distance, the collar emits a beeping sound. If the dog doesn’t stop, he receives a mild shock. This will not harm the animal but in a very short time, he will be trained and will not go off your property.
Feed your pets only pet food. Be certain you provide proper amounts. Never feed pets table scraps and feed at regular times. This will keep your pet in good physical shape. Many cats and dogs are overweight because they are fed table scraps and treats at irregular hours. These pets are more likely to be harmed in situations where mobility is important, such as avoiding the jaws of another dog or a speeding vehicle. Overweight pets face the same medical problems as overweight humans. Heart problems, diabetes and cancer occur more frequently if a pet is overweight.
Never feed your pet bones. Turkey and chicken bones are very dangerous because a splinter can perforate your pet’s intestine. Bone fragments can become lodged in your pet’s mouth or throat and cause choking. Chocolate and salt is also very dangerous to pets, especially dogs. Their stomach enzymes are not the same as ours. These foods cannot be digested properly.
If you plan on having a dog that stays in the yard, be sure to condition him from the time he is a puppy. A dog that has always been outside in a doghouse can withstand harsh winter conditions. Be sure his doghouse is raised off the ground to prevent water from creating puddles on the floor. Face the entrance away from strong winds and be sure the doghouse has dry bedding such a cedar chips and a fluffy blanket. If the thermometer dips below zero Fahrenheit, bring your pet indoors.
Pets need extra energy in winter. Supplement your pet’s diet with a little extra food in cold weather if it lives outdoors. Check the pet’s water dish often to be certain it is not frozen. Be sure to replace stale, cold water with fresh, warm water at least twice a day.
Harsh temperatures and frozen water are not the only hazards that face pets in winter. Keep pets away from vehicles that may leak antifreeze. It attracts pets because it is sweet but it is highly poisonous and can easily kill animals. Be sure to clean up any antifreeze spills immediately to avoid harming your beloved pet.
Check your dog’s paws after each walk during winter months. Salt used for clearing roads or ice balls can become lodged in the pads of their feet and between their toes. This causes irritation and sores. The paw pads can dry out and crack, which makes them more prone to infection and frostbite.
Always hit the top of your car hood with your hand before starting it in cold winter months. Cats often crawl onto warm car engines to sleep. The can become entangled in your engine’s belts, which can severely maim or kill them.
In winter, limit an indoor pet’s exposure to harsh temperatures. Consider using a coat or sweater for small dogs or puppies.
Summer heat and humidity can be just as dangerous to your pet as harsh winter ones. The coats of cats and dogs prevent them from perspiring as we do. That is why dogs pant continually in warm weather. Evaporation of moisture on their tongues and from the pads of their feet helps rid their bodies of excess heat. Provide plenty of cold water for your dog during summer months.
Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle during hot weather. This is extremely dangerous. A dog or cat that is locked in a sweltering vehicle can suffer death or brain damage within minutes. There are laws that prohibit leaving pets unattended in a vehicle during hot weather.
If your pet is living outdoors in summer, be certain his home is under a shade tree. Avoid tying pets where there is no water or shade. Walk your pet in early morning or late evening when it is cooler. This will prevent over heating and heat prostration.
Ticks and fleas are most common during summer. Do not allow pets to frequent areas where there is tall grass or thick brush. Shampoo dogs and cats with flea and tick shampoo, then treat with flea powder or spray that has been recommended by your veterinarian. Check ears, back legs, “armpits” and groin areas for ticks, fleas and other pests. Remove ticks by putting rubbing alcohol or fingernail polish remover directly on them if flea or tick spray is not available. Wait two or three minutes, then remove the tick with tweezers. Flea resistant bedding such as cedar chips also controls pests.
Groom daily to keep your pet’s coat clean and rid it of dander, which builds up in hot weather and contributes to heat problems. Brushing also provides the opportunity to inspect your pet’s skin for rashes and insect bites. If your pet develops a rash or patches of raw skin (hotspots) take him to a veterinarian.
Always keep your pet’s vaccinations and rabies shot up-to-date. Take him for a check-up annually and be certain your vet provides heartworm medication. Heartworm kills and unless your pet is tested each year, the disease cannot be detected during the early stages.
Avoid giving dogs medication that was intended for cats and vice versa. Cats are extremely sensitive to ticks, fleas and treatments.
If your pet is a house animal, follow safety procedures that are used for small children. Keep harmful cleaners, cosmetics and poisonous houseplants out of your pet’s sight. Cats love to chew plants and this habit can put their lives in peril.
If traveling with a dog or cat, use common sense to keep them safe. Never allow them to ride in the back of an open pickup truck. They can easily leap out into the path of oncoming traffic.
The best place for your pet is in the back seat or rear portion of your vehicle. Portable car carriers, pens and even seat belts are available for pets. Make certain that carbon monoxide from leaking exhaust systems cannot find their way into your car. Leave windows down three or four inches to provide adequate ventilation.
If you follow the tips in this article, your pet will provide you with companionship, love and loyalty for many years to come. A pet can bring much joy into a household if it is kept safe.
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