From the Connecticut Humane Society
Here are some tips to help insure that you and your four legged companions
have a healthy, happy spring and summer.
Fleas & Ticks
Your pet may pick up fleas or ticks while he's outdoors. Check for ticks
and give him a thorough bath regularly. If your pet wears a flea collar,
inspect it weekly to make certain that he isn't allergic to the collar and
that it's comfortable. Ask your veterinarian about flea and tick sprays,
powders and medications and use them only in accordance with the
instructions.
Identification for your Pet
Make certain that your pet wears an identification tag (and a license tag)
at all times. In the event he's lost, those tags can be his ticket home.
Vaccinations
Warmer weather brings out wildlife that can carry rabies, distemper and
other disease and your pet will undoubtedly come in contact with other
domestic animals on a more frequent basis as well. To avoid health
problems, make certain that all your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date.
Love is in the Air
Spring is the time that dogs and cats go into heat, become pregnant or
impregnate others. More litters result in more homeless animals. You can
help solve the pet overpopulation problem by having your pet spayed or
neutered. This simple procedure will help control pet overpopulation; your
pet will be happier and healthier; and you'll be performing an important
community service.
Heartworm Tests
Spring is an excellent time to have your pet tested for heartworms.
Heartworms can be fatal if not diagnosed in early stages. Practicing
preventive medicine will help keep your pet healthy all year!
Jogging With Your Dog
If you jog with your dog, be aware of his health and age. If your pet is a
"senior citizen," the stress of jogging could cause him serious harm.
Car Rides
Don't let your pet lean out the car window. Dust particles in the air can
irritate his eyes; small rocks and pebbles can injure him or he could fall
from the car.
Water and Shade
If you leave your dog outside (in a fenced yard, of course) make certain
that he's provided with plenty of fresh water and adequate shade to protect
him from the sun.
Poisons
Don't allow your pet to run freely in a wooded area. Even if you have your
pet on a leash while walking in the woods, be aware of poisonous plants,
shrubs and leaves. Be aware of potentially toxic algae in and around ponds
as well. If your pet swallows anything that is potentially poisonous, rush
him to a vet immediately. A comprehensive list of poisonous plants may be
seen at the following website: www.abc.cornell.edu/plants.
Hot Cars Can Kill
Leaving your pet in a car can be fatal. Don't do it! Even if your car is
parked in the shade with the windows cracked open, the temperature inside
can rise to a life-threatening level within minutes.
Long Car Rides
If you're going to travel by car with your pet for a long distance, don't
feed him for several hours prior to the trip. Water can be given until a
few hours before leaving. Stop often enough along the way to allow your
pet to relieve himself and be certain to provide him with sufficient water
to quench his thirst.
At the Beach
If you and your dog visit the beach, remember that too much sun can make
your pet ill. Don't force your dog into the ocean because the salt water
can irritate his paws and infect his ears. When you and your dog return
from the beach, give him a cool bath to rinse off the sand and salt.
Fireworks
The 4th of July is a fun filled holiday for humans, but loud fireworks are
terrifying to many animals. Keep your pet indoors and as calm as possible
on Independence Day.
Screen Your Windows
It's wonderful to be able to experience the pleasure of fresh, warm breezes
coming in through opened windows, but make certain that your windows have
screens. A pet can easily leap out an open window and be seriously injured
or killed.
Most of all
Give your pets plenty of love, affection, and attention as you, and they,
enjoy the beautiful warm days ahead!
Return to Dog Safety Main Page
This information is made available to you by the efforts of YGRR volunteers. To join them in helping our homeless Goldens, please consider becoming a member or making a donation.
Thank you.
