Archive for the tag 'Pet Safety'

A happy and safe Thanksgiving for your pet

Michelle November 23rd, 2009

Ahh it’s that time of year again. Turkey, mashed potatoes, family get together’s and of course since your pets are a big part of your family, I am including them in that last part.

This is also a time to take  steps to keep your pet safe and healthy. Since I have dogs, I always pay attention to whats out there on the internet. I have listed some tips I have found that will give you a better idea on the do’s and don’ts of including your pet in your Thanksgiving family ritual.

  1. Don’t give your animal different food than they would normal get. Feeding turkey to your dog or cat can cause him or her unwanted abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea, none of which are welcome during this festive weekend.
  2. Discourage your family members and guests from indulging your pet with inappropriate snacks. Food high in sodium (especially peanuts and chips) and other fatty foods like poultry skin, beef or port fat can cause an inflammation of pancreas. Pancreatitis is potentially life-threatening condition.
  3. Dispose of aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and wax paper from holiday foods. If you pet can get to it, he or she will lick the food off foils or wraps. The swallowing of such coverings can cause an intestinal obstruction.
  4. Secure your garbage. It only takes a minute for your little scavenger to get into the garbage and wolf down whatever smells good-including the string used to tie the turkey.
  5. Turkey bones are also dangerous for you pet. Any brittle, spiky bone could lodge in the esophagus or cause an irritation of his or her stomach or intestines.
  6. Maintain his regular schedule for feeding and exercise. Minimizing the stress of animal means being aware of his daily routine and expectations. Pay as much attention to your pet as usual so that he will not feel neglected or insecure.
  7. Keep your pet home and away from parade celebrations. With the large crowds, your pet can become stressed or even worse, can get lost in the crowd.
  8. Make sure your furry friend has fresh water at all times. Frequently check your pet’s water bowl to make sure the supply is clean. Busy children and relatives may bump a bowl and spill the water.
  9. Provide a quiet refuge for your animal. With all the holidays fanfare, you pet will need a “time out” from visiting friends and family. A comfortable crate is one solution; a room with a “Do Not Disturb” sign is another. Give your dog or cat time and space to settle down or take a nap.
  10. Keep current registration and identification tags on you pet. With guests coming in and out of your home, it is very easy for a door to be left ajar and for your animal to wander off.

We here at Pawcific NW Petsitting would like to wish you and yours a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving

Tags: , , , , , ,

Summer is here

Michelle June 29th, 2008

If anyone was wondering if summer was ever going to arrive, these last two days should have squashed any doubts. I came home from a day and half trip to a house full of hot dogs even though the air conditioner was on. Being the worry wart I am, I took each one outside and gave them a good soaking of fresh, cool water. There is nothing more funny than to watch my dogs after they get a bath or in this case a dose of cool water. My big guy, Gus was running around like he was a year old puppy. I am sure they all felt a lot better. I know my Pugs, Wheezer and Raven sure do. As is with any blunt-nosed dogs, it is harder to breathe, especially in extreme heat.

I also worry about next Friday, the 4TH of July, where fireworks rule the day. I know that two of my dogs are not bothered by the noises, but last fall I added two others to my four-legged family. I am not sure how all the noise is going to affect them. As I was waiting for the train yesterday I read an article about helping cats and dogs cope with all the fireworks.

One tip suggested conditioning your pet to cope with the sound of fireworks, by playing recordings of fireworks at a low volume during which your pet is engaged in a activity, such as eating or playing. As time goes on play the recordings a bit louder. When your pet stops exhibiting signs of stress, such as pacing or panting you know that they’re conditioned to the noise. (This is a great idea, one I am going to use)

Another option is taking your pet to a vet for mild sedatives. However, this is a personal choice. Some experts prefer exercises over sedatives.  A good work out can drain much of the pent up energy.

If your dog or cat does panic during the holiday, get them inside and try keeping them calm. They say to turn either the TV or radio up high to mask the noise. Even a fan or air conditioner would work. If the pets are inside try giving them a toy or something they can chew or lick. Anything that can relax them and let them have fun.

If your pet does get out during the 4TH and becomes lost be prepared.

Make sure they are up to date with their ID tags or microchips. Call your local shelters or vets and be careful how you describe your pet, some people may find them but give a different description. Ask neighbors or anyone near if they have seen your pet. Post signs that include a picture and contact information. Don’t forget the internet, use listservs and e-mail contacts.

Last but not least if you find a lost pet call a shelter to see if anyone has filed a lost report. This is especially important if the animal doesn’t have tags. Shelters and vet offices can also scan the animal to see if they have been micro chipped.

By taking precautions you and your pet can have a safe and fun 4TH of July.

 

 

 

Tags: , , , , , , ,