Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe This Summer

Author: ruthmacpete

Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe This Summer

June 29, 2022June 29, 2022
by ruthmacpete

Summer is officially here! As the temperature rises across the country, the risk of summer dangers also rises, especially for your pets.

Follow these simple tips in order to keep your pets safe and cool this summer:

1. Whenever possible keep your pets inside where it’s nice and cool. If they have to be outside, be sure they have access to shade and water.

2. Be sure your pets have plenty of water at all times. When it’s hot, water evaporates faster and pets drink more than usual. Make sure you provide extra bowls of water and don’t forget to bring water and portable dog bowls with you during long walks or outings.

3. Avoid excessive exercise when it’s hot. Keep your walks short to avoid over heating. Walk your dog in the early morning or evening when it is cooler.

4. Before going on a walk, check the ground to be sure it is not too hot for your pets’ feet. Asphalt, concrete, and sand can get very hot. If it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for your pets! If you have to take your pet outside when the ground is hot, make sure to put booties on them to protect their pads from getting burned.

5. Never leave your pet unattended in a car when it’s hot outside. Even with the windows rolled down, your car can reach dangerous temperatures within minutes.

6. Keep pets away from hot barbeque grills and be aware of BBQ and picnic foods that can be dangerous your pet, such as: alcohol, chocolate, grapes, onions, corn cobs, and chicken bones. Toothpicks and skewers can also be dangerous. Never leave pets unsupervised around food. Have pet friendly treats available to avoid temptation and reward your pets for good behavior.

7. Lastly be sure you are familiar and on the look out for the common signs of heat exhaustion (also known as heat stroke) in dogs:
Excessive panting
Drooling
Bright red tongue and gums
Vomiting
Bloody diarrhea
Unsteadiness
Collapse
Seizures

Heatstroke can quickly damage vital internal organs. If you suspect that your pet is suffering from heatstroke, try to cool them down by wetting them with cool water and immediately take them to your veterinarian or closest veterinary emergency clinic for treatment. Without prompt treatment, heatstroke can be fatal.

Remember, pets are more vulnerable to heat exhaustion than us. Hopefully these safety tips will help keep your pets safe and cool.

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How to Keep Your House Clean When You Have…

June 8, 2022June 9, 2022
by ruthmacpete

Spring may be over, but that doesn’t mean you’re done cleaning, especially if you have pets. Pets are cute but they can be messy. Whether it’s endless shedding, litter tracked everywhere, or a trail of muddy pawprints, they seem to leave a mess wherever they go. Thankfully, having a pet doesn’t have to be a never-ending chore. Here are some ways to minimize the mess and keep your house neat and clean.

Pet Hair
With the exception of a few breeds, like poodles, Sphynx cats, and hairless dogs, all dogs and cats shed, some more so than others. Although you can’t stop your pet from shedding, you can get the upper hand with a game-changing tool like the new Dyson Ball™ Animal 3 vacuum. The Dyson Ball™ Animal 3 was specifically designed with pet parents in mind. It’s engineered to drive deep into carpet fibers to capture dust, animal hair and ground-in dirt, and features advanced detangling brush bar technology to remove hair from the brush bar to maintain vacuum efficiency. It even includes a Pet Groom Tool, designed to remove your pet’s loose hairs and pet dander. If you prefer a cordless machine, the new Dyson Outsize +™ has the capacity of an upright vacuum, plus the freedom of cordless versatility with a laser cleaner head that reveals all those pesky hairballs floating across your floor.

Litter
Litter can be messy and smelly! To make kitty clean-up easier, pick a low mess litter, like ökocat Less Mess Clumping Low-Tracking, Mini Pellets Wood Cat Litter. ökocat is all-natural, made from reclaimed wood, and contains no added synthetic chemicals, dyes or fragrances so it’s a cleaner, healthier litter for your cat and you! The low tracking formula helps keep litter in the box where it belongs. For added mess protection, use a litter mat to trap those few loose litter pellets.

Dirty Paws
If you are tired of cleaning muddy pawprints, there are a couple of things you can do to keep you floors and furniture clean. You can use doggy booties whenever your dog goes outside, especially when it is wet or muddy. After all, you would never walk all over town in your bare feet and then hop into bed? Booties keep your dog’s paws clean and can be removed at the door. Another option is to keep pet-safe wipes by the door. A quick wipe after outings will keep their paws and your home clean.

Accidents
Anyone who has pets can attest that they are often messy roommates. Whether it’s litter box accidents, hairballs, vomiting or potty issues, it is inevitable you will need to clean up after your pet sometime. Besides cleaning up the accident, it is important to use the right product. Choose a cleaning product that is safe to use around your pet and that is formulated to neutralize pet odors.

The fact is accidents are inevitable when you have pets. With Ruggable rugs, you don’t have to stress if your pet has an accident on your beautiful new rug. Ruggable rugs are the first washable rugs. They are stain and water resistant and entirely machine washable, so you can just stick your rug in the wash and voila, it’s like the accident never happened. Ruggables are available in different styles and sizes to fit your decorative tastes.

Cleaning Safety
Just a word of caution regarding cleaning and pets, you need to be careful with cleaning products around your pets. Always keep them stored safely away from pets and children and remember if you clean the floor or counter, make sure it’s dry before you let your pets walk on it. Remember pets often lick their feet and can ingest any chemicals that get on their paws.

Let’s face it accidents and messes happen, especially when you have pets! But the fact is pets are family and they make our lives so much better. With the right products, cleaning up after your dog or cat doesn’t have to be a hassle, giving you more quality time to spend with your furry friend.

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Disaster Preparedness for your Pets

May 4, 2022May 4, 2022
by ruthmacpete

Unfortunately natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and wild fires are an inevitable part of life. Though we cannot prevent them, we are not completely helpless. We can improve our chances for a safe outcome by becoming better prepared for these natural disasters.

When disasters strike, they leave no time for blunders. People forced to evacuate have little time to pack. Being ready at a moments notice is critical and having a disaster kit for you and your pets is essential.

Preparing for an emergency begins by making a disaster kit for your family and your pets. However, preparing your pets for a disaster begins even before you pack your first supply in your disaster kit. Your pet should already have a microchip implanted, and wear a collar with identification tags. Taking these precautions can avoid the heartache of a lost pet during these times of chaos. Even with the best precautions your pet can get lost in the turmoil. Having a microchip and ID tag will help reunite you with your lost pet.

As previously mentioned, pets should have their own disaster kit. These kits need to contain all the supplies your pet will need to survive for several days. Pre-made pet disaster kits can be purchased online or you can make your own.

What do you need to make your own grab-n-go kit?

1. A container to store all the supplies.
A duffel bag or backpack is ideal because they are easy to carry in case you need to evacuate. You should choose a brightly colored one because they will be easy to identify and find, even in the darkness of a power outage. Likewise, you should store your disaster kits in a location where they are easily accessible. Storing your emergency kit where you cannot find it or easily get to it negates its usefulness.

2. Food and water
You will need to include enough food in your kit to last for several days. Canned foods last longer than dry foods so these are a good choice for our pack. However, they are heavy and the amount of cans needed to sustain a large dog for several days is probably too bulky and impractical to pack in a disaster kit. Dry food can be packed instead but be sure to pack it in heavy-duty waterproof freezer bags. Be sure you include bowls as well as a can opener (if using canned food). I prefer to use collapsible bowls, because they are light, and collapse to less than two inches so they don’t take up a lot of space. You should have enough water for your pet in their disaster kit, since it may be hard to carry days worth of water consider including a water-purifying filter or iodine tablets.

3. Toys & Treats
Although it may not seem necessary, you should also include your pet’s favorite treats and toys in your disaster kit. Many frightened animals will hide during a disaster and will not want to come out of their hiding place. Along with gentle coaxing, having your pet’s favorite toy on hand may be what you need to entice your fearful pet out of hiding and into safety. Toys also come in handy if you need something to entertain your pet while you are waiting out the storm.

4. Leash and/or Pet Carrier
Be sure to include a leash (preferably one that is reflective) for dogs or a pet carrier for cats or small dogs so that you can safely secure and transport your pet without risking that they will run away and get lost.

Be sure to store your disaster kit and carriers in a location where they are readily accessible. Storing these where you cannot find them or easily get to them negates their usefulness.

5. Medications
Be sure to include any medications that your pet is currently taking, such as arthritis, thyroid and blood pressure medications. You may not be able to go to your veterinarian during an emergency so have extra supplies available.

6. First aid kit
Include a pet first aid booklet and first aid supplies in case your pet gets injured and you cannot access a veterinarian. First aid kits should include antibacterial ointments, bandaging material, wound dressing, and antiseptic wound cleaners. Also pack a thermal blanket to keep your pet warm if it goes into shock. Finally, you can improve your first aid skills by enrolling in a basic pet first aid class often offered at your local animal shelter.

7. Important documents
Pack a copy of your pet’s important medical records, including vaccination history and microchip information. Include a recent photo of your pet and your adoption papers to show you are the owner. I also recommend including a document that has emergency contact information, your veterinarian’s number and any local boarding facilities so you have access to these important numbers.

Having taken the proper measures to prepare for an emergency, you have given yourself and your family the best chance for a safe outcome.

So what do you do during a disaster?

First and foremost, try to remain calm. Then put your plan of action into motion. Get your disaster kits, locate your animals, secure them using either a leash for dogs or a carrier for cats and small dogs, and then get yourself, your family, and your pets to a safe location. Remember take your pets with you! If you have a pet emergency don’t call 911 they do not handle pet emergencies. Instead call your veterinarian, the local veterinary emergency clinic or the local animal shelters. If your pets manage to get lost or you need a place for your pets, contact your local animal shelters for information.

While the area you live in may not be prone to Hurricanes or earthquakes disasters come in all forms. Natural disasters cannot be prevented, but being organized and preparing for them can make a lifesaving difference.

For more on disaster preparedness for your pets watch this video from the Weather Channel.

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How to Reduce Your Pet’s Carbon Paw Print this…

April 7, 2022April 19, 2022
by ruthmacpete

April 22nd is Earth Day, our yearly reminder to reflect upon how our actions impact the planet. However, as pet parents, we need to also think about how we can reduce our pet’s carbon pawprint. How can we ensure that our pet is eco-friendly?

Waste Management
Anyone who has ever had a pet knows that pets make lots of waste. Whether you are picking it up, or scooping it, it is estimated that 10 million tons of waste from pets fill landfills every year. How can we make a difference? If you have a dog, use biodegradable poop bags instead of plastic bags to pick up your dog’s poop. Even better, use an in-ground waste disposal system. In-ground waste disposal systems are mini septic systems that allow you to dispose of your dog’s waste right in your back yard. There are several companies that sell kits you can buy to create your own environmentally-friendly dog waste disposal system. If you have a cat, switch from a clay-based litter to a biodegradable litter like ökocat to cut down on the estimated 2 million tons of clay litter that end up in landfills yearly.

Don’t Pollute
Always pick up after your pet. Besides being inconsiderate, leaving your pet’s waste behind can pollute water sources from runoff. Follow the backpacker’s motto and pack out what you pack in and leave only footprints (or pawprints) behind.

Buy Green
Buying green can include purchasing products made from recycled or sustainable materials, or buying products that are chemical-free. Nowadays, you can buy beds made from reclaimed memory foam scraps and recycled plastic water bottles, or leashes and collars made from sustainably grown hemp. You can even buy eco-friendly dog treats! Jiminy’s dog treats are made from crickets, a sustainable source of protein and omega fatty acids. And dogs (and even cats) love them!

Buy in Bulk
Buying pet food and pet supplies in bulk not only saves money, it also conserves fuel and lowers emissions by saving you extra trips to the store and cuts down on packaging.

Pet Overpopulation
Make sure your pet isn’t adding to the pet over-population problem by having your pets spayed or neutered.

Adopt a Shelter Pet
Don’t forget about your local animal shelter or pet rescue if you are thinking about getting a pet. There are lots of “recycled pets” that need a good home. While adopting one of these deserving pets may not lower emissions or save fuel, it can save a life.

By adopting these simple tips, you and your pet can live green and make the planet a better place.

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Common Pet Poisons: How To Keep Your Pets Safe

March 21, 2022March 21, 2022
by ruthmacpete

March 21st marks the beginning of Poison Prevention Week. Every year, thousands of pets are accidentally poisoned by common household products, foods, and plants. Here are some of the most common household hazards:

1. Human medications.

According to ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center, 50% of their calls are related to the accidental consumption of human medications. Dogs, in particular puppies, will chew pill vials because they rattle like a pet toy, and may eat the pills. Some common medications that can be harmful to our pets include heart medications, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and opioids. Even medications that are “safe” can be toxic if an entire vial is consumed. In addition to prescription medications, over the counter (OTC) medications can be just as deadly. Sometimes well-meaning pet parents will give their pets an OTC medication assuming it is safe because it is available without a prescription. Unfortunately, OTC medications can be deadly to our pets, even in small doses. For example, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is highly toxic to cats and a dose as small as half a pill can be lethal.

2. Food.

Most people know that chocolate is toxic to pets, yet chocolate-toxicity is one of the most common pet poisonings. Unfortunately, pets love chocolate almost as much as we do, so it is important to always keep chocolate out of our pet’s reach. Other common toxic foods include grapes and sweets containing xylitol. Grapes is toxic to dogs and even small amounts can cause kidney failure. Xylitol is found in sugar-free sweets and gums and is also toxic to pets.

3. Household cleaners.

Pet-proof your home and keep household cleaners out of reach. Also remember to keep your pets away whenever using a cleaner on your counters or floors. Pets, especially cats, may accidentally ingest a harmful cleaner when they lick their paws.

4. Rodenticides.

Rodenticides (rodent poisons) are extremely dangerous to our pets as they are designed to attract and kill rodents. Unfortunately, they attract our pets as much as their intended targets, and they can be just as deadly to our pets. Rodenticides often contain anticoagulants, like warfarin, which causes internal bleeding. Other common rodenticides contain equally toxic ingredients such as bromethalin (damages the central nervous system), cholecalciferol (kidney damage), and zinc phosphide (damages the heart, brain, kidney, and liver).

5. Plants.

Many plants are toxic to our pets. Unfortunately, pets will often chew plants and ingest plants. Lilies are especially common during Easter and are highly toxic to cats. Every part of the plant (flowers, leaves, stems, and even pollen) is extremely toxic to cats. Before bringing home a household plant or bouquet, or planting a new plant in the yard, I always recommend checking to make sure that the plant is not poisonous to your pets.

6. Garden products.

Fertilizers can also be toxic to our pets. Ironically, environmentally-friendly organic fertilizers can be more dangerous than conventional fertilizers. Organic fertilizers often contain bone meal and feather meal, which attracts our pets. As a result, dogs will often consume large amounts of organic fertilizers. Bone meal can also contain bone fragments that can cause gastrointestinal obstructions.

Remember this list is not comprehensive. These are just some common household pet hazards. To learn more, visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center website. Keep these household hazards safely out of reach. However, if you think your pet may have ingested something harmful, call your veterinarian, the local emergency veterinary hospital or the ASPCA Poison Control immediately. The sooner you treat a poisoning, the safer it is for your pet and the less expensive it will likely be for you.

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Ways to Show Your Pets Some Love this Valentine’s…

February 7, 2022
by ruthmacpete

Our pets give us so much and ask for so little. Show them how much you love and appreciate them this Valentine’s Day. Need help figuring out what to get your furry loved one? Here are some simple but sweet ideas.

Treats

Chocolate and candy are the number one gift for Valentine’s Day every year! I mean, who doesn’t love getting sweets for Valentine’s Day? Unfortunately for dogs, chocolate is toxic to them. So what can you give your pet instead? Give them something yummy and healthy. My dogs loves WestPaw Air-Dried Bison treats. They are made from pasture raised Bison, contain no artificial flavors or preservatives, and are made in the USA. They are air-dried to preserve vitamins, minerals, proteins and of course flavor. Bison is a naturally lean meat and it is rich in taurine and omega 3 fatty acids, so it’s a healthy snack too (but don’t tell your dog). You can find these tasty treats in pet stores around the country or online. And if you’re feeling really creative, you can make a Valentine’s Day treat box for your pet by filling a heart-shaped box with some their favorite treats!

Toys

What better way to show your pet that you love them than by giving them something fun? West Paws makes all kinds of toys that are fun, innovative, and durable. Designed by dog enthusiasts, West Paws dog toys inspire play and stimulate your dog’s mind. Their puzzle dog toys are designed to dispense treats and reward your dog for their foraging behavior and focused play. Remember, a busy dog is a happy dog. West Paw dog toys are made in the USA. They are available at pet stores nationwide and online.

Good Health

Lastly, give your pet the ultimate gift of love: good health. Because after all what’s more important than the gift of good health? So how do you do that?
• Don’t wait until your pets get sick before taking them to the veterinarian. Your pets should have regular checkups, at least annually, and every 6 months for pets older than 7 years.
• Make sure your pet stays up to date on the recommended immunizations to ensure they are protected against preventable illnesses.
• Protect your pet from parasites by using veterinary recommended parasite control products year-round.
• Keep your pet’s smile pearly white by brushing regularly with pet-safe tooth paste and by providing dental toys and treats to help keep their teeth healthy and clean
• Exercise is as important for your pet as it is for you. Exercise to keep your pet fit and healthy.

When you are thinking about what to get for your loved ones this Valentine’s Day, don’t forget about your four-legged friends. Show them how much you value and appreciate their unconditional love and companionship.

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2022 Pet Friendly New Year’s Resolutions

January 20, 2022January 20, 2022
by ruthmacpete

2022 is here! And if you are like me, you have already made your New Year’s resolutions and are ready to start working on your new goals. But have you thought about making New Year’s resolution for your pets? To help our furry friends start out on the right paw here are some suggested pet friendly New Year’s resolutions.

Eat right and exercise more!

1. The number one New Year’s resolution is to lose weight. Like humans, many pets also suffer from overeating and lack of exercise. This year think about increasing your pet’s exercise and improving their nutrition. Cut back on treats and table scraps. It is important to realize that each treat or table scrap adds calories. Increasing daily walks will not just benefit your dog but also benefits your own health and fitness goals.

Regular Veterinary visits

2. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Most people have heard this well-known saying, but many don’t realize that following this advice can help their pets live healthier lives and save them money doing so! Preventative care, which includes regular examinations, lab work, vaccines, dental cleanings, and parasite control, can prevent some diseases from developing or at least detect disease early before it becomes more advanced and causes complications. The earlier a disease is diagnosed, the better the prognosis. Early diagnosis also means the disease may be treated with more standard treatments and may avoid the need for more expensive interventions and procedures. Remember take your pet to the veterinarian for routine check-up at least once a year as recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Improving your image

3. We all want to look our best and our pets are no exception. Make the commitment this year to provide regular grooming for your pet. Depending on your type of pet this may include weekly baths, regular brushing, or trips to the doggie salon for haircuts. Don’t forget grooming includes trimming nails, cleaning ears, and also brushing teeth. It’s not just vanity. Brushing your pet’s teeth daily and obtaining regular dental care can keep your pet’s teeth healthy and avoid periodontal disease and tooth loss.

Safety

4. Our pets depend upon to keep them safe. Make your home a pet-safe home. Clear your house and yard of hazardous chemicals like insecticides, chemical cleaners, rat poison, snail bait, and antifreeze, to name a few. Also, make sure you’re not harboring any toxic plants at home. If you have any questions about whether something is harmful or not, check with your veterinarian or the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center. Be sure to get collars, identification tags, and microchips if your pets do not already have them. All animals, even indoor cats, should be microchipped. Thousands of pets are lost each year and microchips are the best way to ensure your pet a safe return should they become lost.

Love

5. Lastly, commit to spending more quality time with your pets. Play with them more, take your dogs on more walks, and of course, don’t forget to snuggle with them. Nowadays there are many dog friendly places around that let you shop with your pet or even take them to lunch with you. Take advantage of these places and enjoy the time you spend with your pet.

Hopefully, these pet-friendly resolutions will help your pet start 2022 out on the right paw!

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Paw-sitively Perfect Gifts for Pets and Pet Parents

December 13, 2021December 14, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Holiday shopping for our pets can be ruff. Our pets can’t write to Santa or tell us what they want for Christmas. If you’re still looking for the perfect gift for your furry, four-legged best friend, here are some gift suggestions that will make your cats purr and pups wag with approval. I also have great gift ideas for your pet-loving family and friends.

Toys and Treats

Toys make great gifts because there are so many options to choose from. “Active” toys, like ball launchers, frisbees, and retrieving toys keep your dog active and fit. “Puzzle” toys stimulate your pet’s mind and can keep them entertained for hours. Chew toys can also entertain your dog for hours and can keep them out of trouble. Finally, there is no better stocking stuffer for your pets than their favorite tasty treats.

Restful Sleep

Pets understand the value of rest. On average dogs and cats spend 12 hours and 15 hours asleep, respectively. In addition, dogs spend another 4 hours awake but resting, and some cats can even sleep up to 20 hours in a day. Pet parents know that if there is any down time, their pets are most likely napping. That’s why your pet will love a cozy new pet bed for the holidays. Let your pets lounge in luxury in their very own Harry Barker beds. Harry Barker pet beds are not only comfy and stylish, but also eco-friendly, and their bed covers are hypoallergenic, easy to remove, and machine washable.

https://harrybarker.com/collections/sleep

Fashion

Clothing for your dog is not only about fashion, but also about function. As the temperatures dip, your pets want to look cool, but stay warm this winter. WagWear makes comfortable, fashionable clothes for pets. Made from high quality textiles and featuring elegant designs, their sweaters and jackets will look great on your pet and will keep them warm this winter. You can choose between cozy fleece jackets or toasty puffer jackets in several fun styles and colors. They also make the most adorable dog WagWellies boots to keep your pet’s feet comfortable and dry.

https://wagwear.com

Another pet fashion favorite is Harry Barker. They offer a selection of stylish turtleneck sweaters and cozy dog pajamas. Yes, dog pajamas! And they even make pajama bottoms for people so you and your pet can wear matching pajamas this holiday.

https://harrybarker.com/collections/apparel

And for Pet-Loving Humans…

Let’s not forget about your pet-loving family and friends. Here are some great gift ideas for people who are as crazy about their pets, as you are about yours. You are not the only one who’s crazy about your pets.

The Ultimate Tool Against Pet Hair

Unless you have a Mexican Hairless dog, Sphinx cat, or non-shedding breed like a poodle, if you have a dog or cat, you are probably fighting a never-ending battle against pet hair. Pet hair seems to magically multiply on its own, forming fuzz bunnies right before your eyes. Although you can’t stop your pet from shedding, you can get the upper hand with a game-changing tool like the Dyson Cyclone V10 cordless vacuum. The Dyson Cyclone V10 is specifically designed with pet parents in mind. It has two different cleaner heads to remove dirt, pet hair, dander and allergens from carpets and floors, and it’s powerful, lightweight, and cordless for performance and convenience. It also has a mini motorized tool that’s perfect for pet beds and furniture.

https://www.dyson.com/vacuum-cleaners/cordless/v10/absolute/black

Apparel for Dog Lovers

How about fun unique gifts that show how much you love your pets? Dog Is Good makes T-shirts, hats, hoodies, mugs, car magnets and more with fun and adorable slogans like “Dog is Good,” “Happy Holidogs,” “Dog is My Zen,” and of course plenty of “Dog Mom” and “Dog Dad” gear.

https://www.dogisgood.com

A Picture Book for Future Veterinarians

What do you get for the kid who loves animals? Well, if they are like most kids and want to be a vet when they grow-up, my picture book Lisette the Vet is a great gift idea. The book is about Lisette, a little girl who loves animals and wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up. When something happens to the new class pet, Lisette must overcome her fears to save the day.

https://drruthpetvet.com/book/

With the Holidays just around the corner, these gift ideas can help you find the perfect gifts for your pets and friends who made Santa’s “nice” list.

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Winter Weather Pet Safety Tips

November 17, 2021November 17, 2021
by ruthmacpete

I recommend investing in warm weather apparel for those times when your pet has to go outside for a walk or playtime. Canada Pooch makes all kinds of winter gear for pets, including jackets, hoodies, sweaters, booties, hats and even thermals! They are designed to keep your dog warm and comfortable when it’s cold outside and they’re also super stylish.

2. Protect their paws

As every pet parent knows, your pet’s paws pick up all kinds of stuff. Unfortunately, that can include dangerous chemicals. During winter, it’s common to find salt, de-icing chemicals, and antifreeze on the ground. Booties not only protect your pet’s feet from the cold, they also prevent them from coming into contact with salt and other winter chemicals that can be irritating to their paws and harmful or even deadly if licked and ingested. If your pets are not wearing booties when they go outside, be sure to wipe your pet’s paws (with soap and water or pet wipes) immediately after they come inside to prevent them from licking and ingesting any dangerous chemicals and keep them from tracking these around the house.

3. Keep chemicals safely out of reach

Keep antifreeze, which contains ethylene glycol, out of reach of pets (and children). Ethylene glycol has a sweet aroma and taste that can attract animals. Unfortunately, it can lead to kidney failure and can be fatal if ingested. Ideally use only pet-friendly antifreeze. Pet-friendly anti-freeze is made from propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol. This less toxic alternative is available online and at many automotive stores. Likewise, keep all de-icing chemicals safely out of reach of curious pets.

4. Check under the hood

Most people have heard of rodents getting caught in car engines, but did you know that cats occasionally get stuck under hoods too? This happens because outdoor cats hide under cars in order to stay warm on cold nights. Sometimes they will climb under the hood to seek shelter. Unfortunately, this is not a safe place for cats. When unsuspecting car owners turn on their ignition, the moving belts can injure, maim, or kill the cat. To help prevent cats and other animals in your neighborhood from getting under your hood, consider the following tips. Whenever possible, park your car in your garage. Honk your horn or tap on the hood before starting your car to scare away any hitchhikers. Likewise, slam your car door and make noise to give the animal a chance to get away. The goal is to make noise so any sleeping animals have a chance to scurry off.

5. Be prepared for emergencies with proper ID and disaster kits

A big winter storms can sometimes lead to a power outage. While we can’t predict emergencies, we can be prepared. The first thing you need to do is to make sure all of your pets have proper identification. Make sure your pet has a collar and ID tag with your phone number. Having a collar and ID tag improves the odds that your lost pet will be reunited with you. Unfortunately, collars and tags are not fool proof. Your pet should also have a microchip so that even if they lose their collar, the microchip will identify your pet. Finally, be sure to have a disaster kit for yourself and your pets. The disaster kit should be easily accessible and should include a supply of food, water, treats, toys and a first aid kit. For more information on making a disaster kit, read my blog on how to prepare for emergencies.

Follow these tips to help keep your pet safe and warm during this winter.

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Halloween Hazards all Pet Parents Need to Know

October 18, 2021October 21, 2021
by ruthmacpete

Halloween is almost here! Halloween is my all-time favorite holiday. Ever since I was a kid, I have loved Halloween but… not everyone loves Halloween. In fact, many animals are downright terrified by the holiday. In addition to being scary, Halloween can be dangerous to our pets. It is important all pet parents know the four most common Halloween pet hazards and how to keep their pets safe this Halloween.

1.Open Doors
The spooky decorations, eerie noises, ghoulishly dressed little people ringing doorbells and yelling “trick-or-treat” can be frightening to our pets. If you have a nervous, shy or easily frightened pet it is best to keep them inside your house and away from the door. Likewise, if your pet is very protective, keep your pet safely secured inside the house. Sadly, many frightened pets get lost during Halloween every year when they dart out of an open front door or escape from their yard. It’s best to keep your dog safely away from the commotion in a back room and give them a treat or toy to keep them busy. West Paw makes a variety of interactive toys. The West Paw Toppl can be filled with your dog’s favorite treat or food to keep them engaged, mentally stimulated and distracted from the scary sounds and ghouls and goblins at the door.

2.Candy
Scary trick-or-treaters aren’t the worst hazard to our pets. Candy is probably the biggest danger. As most people, know chocolate is toxic to our pets and can be fatal. However, it’s not just chocolate that we have to watch out for. Candy with xylitol, like sugar-free gum, is also vey dangerous to pets. Xylitol causes insulin release and low blood sugar levels and can lead to liver failure. Be sure to keep all Halloween candy away from your pets. If your pet manages to steal some candy, immediately call your veterinarian for help or take your pet to a veterinary emergency clinic.

3.Decorations
Halloween decorations can be another big danger to our pets. Flickering candles, jack-o-lanterns, and twinkling lights don’t just capture our attentions, pets are curious by nature and are drawn to these lights as well. Unfortunately, pets can get burned if they get too close to a candle or jack-o-lanterns, or worse, start a house fire. Instead of using traditional candles, use battery operated candles. These are much safer for you and your pets. Halloween lights are pretty but can also be dangerous to ours pets. Pets can get tangled in lights, or worse yet, they can get electrocuted if they chew on them.

4.Costumes
Some people, like me, love to dress their pet up for Halloween. Just be sure you use a costume made especially for pets and never leave them in a costume unattended. Pet costumes are designed to fit your pet comfortably and to come off easily. Even so, you should never leave your pet alone in a costume. Some animals may decide to take their costume off themselves and become entangled, while others may decide to eat the costume in order to ensure they won’t have to wear it again.

This Halloween, make it a priority to keep your pets safe and sound. Keep your cats inside if you don’t already do so, and put your dog in a back room, especially if they are shy, nervous, or easily frightened by kids, loud noises, and lights. Be aware of common Halloween hazards like candy and decorations. Finally, if your pet doesn’t already have a collar, ID tag and microchip, get these before Halloween just in case your pet gets frightened and runs away during all the spooky commotion.

Have a safe and happy Halloween!