Our communities have grown outward to the point where we are increasingly encroaching on territory that was once the exclusive habitat of wildlife. Raccoons, foxes and coyotes, to name a few, have even been spotted in urban areas. And our pets are in danger of becoming their prey. But there are simple rules you can […]
Pet Safety
Keeping our pets safe is a major concern. Just like a household with small children, a household with pets must be pet-proof, since there are many hazards in ordinary household items. Safety is also imperative outside the home: in the yard, in the car and while taking a stroll. Seasonal hazards exist too. Summer and winter require different precautions, and holidays can be a dangerous time for pets.
Below are some articles on keeping your pet safe:
Passive Smoking Is Dangerous for Pets
If you smoke at home, you could be putting your pets at risk for cancer. A 2002 study showed that cats exposed to second-hand smoke were twice as likely to develop the disease. If they were exposed for five years or more, the risk tripled. Cats are at risk because the smoke clings to their […]
Dogs and Mud Puddles
We all love our dogs and spring. But spring is also a time when the ground thaws out and makes mudpuddles. And in this case, your dog can drink from them. Besides being unsightly, it could also lead to illness. But there are ways to prevent it, notably: Give the dog a drink before you […]
Is Your Home Pet-Safe?
There are a number of items in our homes that we don’t think twice about but that can injure a pet. Opening and closing doors can present a danger, particularly to small pets. Be aware of where your pet is, open and close doors slowly so no one is hurt. If it’s an outside door, […]
How do I prevent my cat from running out when the door opens?
This is a tough one. I was fortunate to have cats that weren’t interested in going out. They enjoyed sitting on the windowsill, watching all the activity, but that’s as far as they would go. There are some things you can try. When the door is about to be opened, throw a favorite toy in […]
How do I keep my garden pet-safe?
The first thing to do is clear your yard/garden of any material that may injure your pet. Check the fence to make sure it is secure – pets shouldn’t be able to dig their way out, catch on any loose boards or exposed nails. I no longer use toxic sprays to rid the garden of […]
Horse Safety
Raising a horse is a great experience but also a big responsibility. Below are some tips for keeping your horse safe and for ensuring human safety while interacting with a horse. Protecting the horses Use a lead rope and not just a halter, since the horse could become agitated by the perception of danger and […]
Home Safety for Your Cat
We’ve touched on pet safety in your home, but our curious cats need additional consideration. Because they can climb in places unreachable by dogs and will play with anything that moves, we must be extra alert. Electrical cords and outlets should be covered. Where this is not feasible, perhaps coating the cords with something that […]
Bufo Toad – Poisonous for Pets
There is a toad living near water that is a threat to your pets and children. The toad has several names – Bufo Toad, Giant Toad, Cane Toad. It is highly poisonous to pets. Adult Bufo Toads are 6-9 inches long, have tan, reddish brown, dark brown or gray brown warty skin. The back has […]
Does Your Cat Like to Hide?
Most cats like to hide at times, and usually in some unlikely places – the clothes dryer, your mattress, under the covers, your closet, hampers, behind or under appliances (sometimes inside), boxes, paper bags and the bookcase to name a few. Cats have very flexible bodies and are able to fit in many tight places. […]