Dogs are naturally curious creatures, both inside and outside the home. While that allows them plenty of outlets, it can sometimes lead to illness and injury. An owner prepared to respond quickly can be the difference between life and serious injury or death. Here are some tips on keeping your pets safe.
Potential Risks
There are many potential risks to your pet whether it be in the home, the yard, or when you are out and about. Here are just a few of them.
Extreme Heat
As the Earth continues to warm, we experience more days with extreme heat. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are potential risks. Being prepared on these days is crucial for your pet’s health.
Extreme Cold
We had particularly cold days in Chicago this year. It can be challenging for pets and their owners to manage exercise routines and trips outside to potty. A pet’s extremities are at risk in this scenario.
Vehicle Accidents
A loose pet in the car can create a distraction for the driver and can lead to serious injury or death of your pet in the event of a vehicle accident. There are many ways to safely manage this scenario and keep everyone safe.
Poison
The risk of poisoning is present both inside and outside the home. Many foods are naturally poisonous to dogs and chemicals and other products left unattended can lead to disastrous results.
Management
Management is your first line of defense in keeping your pet safe. It can also be a way for you to enjoy specific experiences with greater peace of mind.
Gates, Crates, and Pens
These types of equipment can be helpful when humans and/or the puppy need their space. Think about having a dinner party and avoiding having that well-meaning relative feeding your dog off their plate! Not only is that a recipe for your dog consuming too many calories, it can also lead to the consumption of poisonous foods.
Is This Necessary?
I have often been personally frustrated when attending a summer event and watching owners drag a dog on leash who is clearly overheating. Leaving the dog home and spending time with them in another way later is certainly a better option for your furry friend.
Vehicle Safety
This is another time to think about whether it’s worth having your pet with you. Do you need to run an errand during which your pet will be left in the car? Leave your dog at home. It takes only seconds for your dog to feel the impact of a car on a particularly warm or cool day – and the temperatures do not have to be as extreme as you think.
To restrict unnecessary movement in the car, a crate can be used. There are also car seats available. Teach your dog a reliable Down/Stay that can be used in the back seat. A canopy with a seat belt can keep your dog safe, comfortable, and out of the way while your are operating a vehicle.
Education and Awareness
We all know knowledge is power and this is no exception in keeping your pets safe. Educating yourself on potential risks and being prepared in an emergency is crucial.
Understand the Environmental Risks
Be aware of your surroundings. Are the plants in your yard where your dog plays safe? Many plants can be poisonous if ingested.
Know What Your Dog Is Eating
There are many choices today for dog food. Research your brand and sign up for updates in the event of any recalls. If there is ever a recall on the food you are giving your dog, consider switching.
First Aid Training
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, but accidents can and will happen. Dangerous situations happen in a matter of seconds, and being prepared to help your dog, even to stabilize and keep them comfortable on the way to the vet, can make all the difference. There are many resources available for first aid training. These include, but are not limited to, American Red Cross or e-training for dogs. Whether you are looking to learn in-person or online, there are plenty of options. Keeping a first aid kit at home and in the car and knowing how to use it can help you feel secure and safe.
Emergency Contacts
Emergencies happen in seconds and pet owners will understandably feel stress and panic. Having your vet’s contact information and hours on your phone, as well as that of the 24-hour vet in your area, will give you the ability to connect for help quickly.
There are many risks to your dog both at home and in the outside world. Being prepared through knowledge, training, skills, and equipment can make all the difference for you and the safety of your furry friends.