Seasonal Tips

Summer Safety Tips

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) found that preventable accidents are the number one cause of death of pre-senior pets. The approaching summer will present it’s own set of challenges.

 

 

Pools and Boating

 

Pool chemicals are caustic and can cause burns; make sure they are stored properly. In addition, pets need an easy exit from the pool or onto a boat. There are ramps readily available designed specifically for this purpose.  Life vests are life savers. Be sure it is a proper fit.

 

 

Barbeque Grills

 

Recipe for Disaster

 

  1. Start with a hot, unattended grill.
  2. Mix in meat of your choice.
  3. Add the family dog.

 

 

 

Grills are very hot! Furthermore, cooked bones and corn on the cob are not an appropriate treat. They can splinter causing intestinal damage as well as present a choking hazard. Be aware of the seasoning used on the leftovers you give your pets. For example, onion is poisonous.

 

Yards and Other Outdoor Areas

 

Pesticide and fertilizer applications are poisonous to your pet; either by absorption or ingestion.  They should not have access to treated areas. Additionally, pest traps use very yummy stuff as bait. Remember, what poisons the pest will also poison the pets. Topical spot on treatments should be species appropriate. This is a serious issue for cats and other small mammals.

 

Many commercially prepared types of mulch are chemically treated. Furthermore, cocoa mulch contains theobromine; which is poisonous to pets.

 

Familiarize yourself with the local wildlife and the dangers they present to your pets. This includes coyotes, bats, snakes, insects, etc.

 

Monitor, appropriately sized treats and toys to prevent choking.

 

Hot pavement and sand can burn pads. You can apply topical salves and ointments for protection. In addition, pets can sunburn.

 

Provide clean, fresh, cool water to prevent dehydration. Dehydration will lead to heatstroke in a very short period of time. The very young, the elderly, the immune suppressed and those dogs with the pushed in faces, such as Pugs and Shih Tzu’s; are prone to heatstroke. Be careful not to let any pets overexert themselves during the summer. I provide cooling mats and cooling collars for my pets. The mats are found at http://www.thegreenpetshop.com and the collars at http://www.koolcollarstore.com.

 

Thunderstorms and lightening are frightening to some pets. Keep them indoors at such times. Check the electronic fences after a storm. Lightening can short circuit a fence rendering it useless.

 

 

Car Safety

 

More injuries and fatalities occur in the interior rather than the exterior of the vehicle. In the event of an accident, an unrestrained pet can face or cause serious injuries. A pet in the front seat risks having its’ tongue amputated by a deployed airbag. They deploy at over 200mph. We have all seen what a pebble does to a windshield of a car. Imagine the damage that pebble could do to the soft corneal tissue of an eye. Pet restraints are widely available; don’t put EMS in a position to make a decision regarding your pet in the event of an accident.

 

Vacations        

 

Vacationing and traveling with your pet can be a fun experience if you plan and prepare first. A good resource book is Let’s Go Fido and can be found at http://www.amazon.com/Lets-Go-Fido-Mary-Oquendo/dp/0982883102/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1306611675&sr=8-1. Lets go Fido is a 43-page guide to safe traveling, vacationing and boarding your pets.

 

PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PET UNATTENDED IN YOUR CAR FOR ANY REASON

 

It doesn’t matter if you leave the A/C on, as it is a mechanical device. Mechanical devices are subject are subject to breakdown. The interior temperature of a car in 78-degree weather can reach 150-degrees in 15 minutes. It doesn’t matter if it is parked in the shade, what the color of the car is or if the windows are open or closed. It doesn’t matter because those factors are not influenced by the sun’s shortwave radiation. Rather, the interior components of the vehicle such as seats and dashboard are heated by the sun’s long wave radiation. This can result in heatstroke. In turn, this could result in your pet’s death.

 

 

Even though you have done your best to provide a safe environment for your pet, accidents can and do happen. The AAHA states that 25% more pets could have been saved if only one pet first aid technique was applied prior to veterinary treatment. Do you know what to do in an emergency? Do you know where the nearest animal emergency hospital is? Have you prepared yourself by taking a pet first aid class? To find a pet first aid instructor near you, contact me at [email protected].

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Spring Safety Tips

Believe it or not Spring is around the corner. While waiting for the icebergs to recede, let’s familiarize ourselves with upcoming dangers for our pets.

 

1.Snakes

 

Poisonous snakebites are extremely painful. Keep a muzzle handy. The bite may not be immediately noticeable due to hair coverage. Signs include redness and swelling at the site, nervousness, weakness, disorientation, excessive salivating, vomiting, respiratory distress, and seizures. In the case of respiratory distress, remove the muzzle. Since the symptoms of snakebite and anaphylactic shock are so similar, check for possible wound sites. Pay particular attention to areas where they are licking. When we become overwrought our bodies give off specific pheromones.Those pheromones are interpreted by your pet that something is very wrong. As a result, they become more excited and stressed. As their heart beats faster, the poison works that much quicker. Remaining calm helps. Remove all collars and clothing (from your pet, not you!) as body swelling may occur. Call you veterinarian FIRST and then transport ASAP.

 

There are two ways to treat a poisonous snakebite. The first is with antivenin. Many vets do not stock this as it is very expensive and has an expiration date. The second is to treat it as an allergic reaction with antibiotics, steroids, fluid replacement, and pain relief. The sooner it is treated, the better the chance of recovery. If you live in an area with poisonous snakes, keep a constricting band in you pet first aid kit. Additionally, discussing your options with your vet before a snakebite is a good idea.

 

Treat nonpoisonous snakebites as wounds. Inform your vet, as they may want to prescribe a round of antibiotics.

 

A poisonous snakebite has two clear fang marks. A nonpoisonous snakebite has two semicircles of teethmarks. 

 

2. Coyotes

 

Though coyotes hunt mainly from dusk to dawn, females will hunt during the day to feed hungry pups. Do not think your 90lb. golden is safe. They hunt in packs and are highly intelligent, aggressive, and fast. Leash walk your pet and keep cats indoors during peak hunting times. I walk my dogs with an air horn. Most hardware stores carry them and are small enough to fit in a jacket pocket. The loud noise tends to scare them off if they are not rabid.

 

3.Animal Bites

 

Bats, raccoons, skunks, and other animals are out in full force. If bitten, your pet will need veterinarian treatment as well as receive a rabies booster. If your pet is not current, they will be quarantined. 

 

4. Skunks

 

You have a short window to de-skunk your pet. Their spray is oil based. The longer you wait, the more is absorbed into your pet’s skin. Have your de-skunking kit ready. My kit contains a plastic bucket, scrubber, small box of baking soda, small bottle of hydrogen peroxide, eyewash, and a small bottle of pet degreasing shampoo. It works better on a dry coat. I rinse the eyes both before and after the bath. Combine the rest of the ingredients with warm water, scrub and rinse will. Throw away any cloth collars, as they are not salvageable.

 

5. Insect and Spider Bites

 

Insect, bee and spider bites can cause your pet to go into anaphylactic shock. This is life threatening. Do not use tweezers to remove bee stingers as this will squeeze more venom into your pets body. Use a credit card instead. Place the card under the stinger to lift it up and then flick it out.

 

Symptoms include pain, redness and swelling at site, unconsciousness, seizures, excessive salivation, vomiting, and respiratory distress. This is very similar to snakebite. Keeping calm helps your pet to stay calm. It is a good idea to investigate whenever your pet is licking at an area as it may be the first sign of a bite. Your pet first aid kit should contain an antihistamine dosed for your pet by your veterinarian. If you suspect anaphylactic shock, contact your veterinarian for instructions prior to your arrival at their office.

 

6. Ticks, Mosquitos, and Fleas

 

They spread disease and severe illnesses. Every year there seems to be another new tick borne disease. Use a preventative. I, personally, do not use topical spot on products. I feel that the cons far outweigh the pros. In it’s place I use essential oil based products. The biggest drawback is they need daily application. Aromapaws, Aromadog, Halo, and Pet Naturals of Vermont make repellenants I have used with success. 

 

7. Gardening

 

Know which plants, bulbs, and shrubs are hazardous to your pets. The ASPCA’s website; www.aspca.org, has a comprehensive list of poisonous plantings. Many commercially prepared mulches are treated with chemicals that are toxic and cocoa mulches contains cocoa, AKA chocolate. Store fertilizers and pesticides in their original containers and away from your pets. Keep pets away from treated areas as they will absorb toxins through the skin or pads. In addition, they may lick their paws and ingest the poison.

 

8. Poisoning

 

Poison Controls number is 888-426-4435. This is not a free service, but will be the best money ever spent if needed as minutes matter in poisonings. What is free is the refrigerator magnet from their website; www.aspca.org.

 

Frontline is fatal for rabbits. As with any product, use it in its intended manner. The label must indicate it is safe for your pet.

 

Keep holiday candy out of reach. Chocolate contains Theobromine. It affects the heart and circulatory systems. Even small amounts are dangerous. Pets cannot process Theobromine and it builds up in their bodies. Sugar free candies contain xylitol. It is fatal. Wrappers can cause intestinal obstructions and know where you hide the Easter Eggs. You don’t want your pet to eat a rotten one.

 

10. Weather

 

Spring storms bring thunder and lightning. It can be fearful for some pets causing them to run off. Make sure your pet is well identified. A well identified pet has a better chance of returning home. Thundershirts, www.thundershirt.com; is a snug fitting jacket that helps alleviate anxiety during storms. Herbal remedies, from Bach’s and Alaskan Essences; may offer some relief.

 

We are transitioning from cold to heat related injuries. A pet can suffer a heatstroke in a parked car when the temperature exceeds 78 degrees in as little as 15 minutes. A pet suffering from heatstroke needs immediate attention. Cool them off gradually with lukewarm water. DO NOT USE COLD WATER OR ICE as it will create a thermal barrier. This thermal barrier will hinder your pets’ ability to cool down. Call your veterinarian ASAP for instructions.

 

11. Traveling

 

As nicer weather comes our way, thoughts of dog parks, hiking and other travel destinations come to mind. Are you prepared to travel with your pet? A good resource guide is Let’s Go Fido by yours truly. Visit my website at www.pawsitivelypretty.com for details on how to order this invaluable guide.

 

13. Miscellaneous

 

Do you know where your after hours emergency pet hospital is? Is their phone number handy? Calling them before you leave gives them time to prepare for your arrival as well as give you any life saving instructions. Make a practice run, so you will know exactly where they are. It is not a good idea to try to locate them in a state of panic.

 

Is your pet first aid kit and hiking kit stocked with what you need? Here is a link to my blog article detailing my personal pet first aid kits: www.groomwise.typepad.com/pet_first_aid_care/kits/.

Antifreeze leaks can happen any time of the year. They clean up easily with soap and water. Antifreeze is fatal.

 

 

As we wait for the snow to melt and the buds to bloom, take a few minutes to Spring-proof your pets’ life. They will thank you for it.

 

 


Spring Safety Tips

 Spring is around the corner.  While waiting for the daffodils to poke through, let’s familiarize ourselves with upcoming dangers for our pets. As the birds and buds become more abundant, so does the wildlife.

1.       Snakes

a.        Poisonous snakebites are extremely painful.  A muzzle should be handy. The bite may not be immediately noticeable due to hair coverage. Signs include redness and swelling at the site, nervous, weak or disoriented appearance, salivating excessively, vomiting, respiratory distress and seizures. If respiratory distress occurs, remove the muzzle. Since the symptoms of snakebite and anaphylactic shock are so similar, you should visually check for possible wound sites. Pets are very good at reading our emotions. If we appear excited or stressed, then they will follow suit. The poison will work faster in a stressed or overexcited pet.  Remaining calm will help. Remove collars or other restrictive clothing as body swelling may occur. Call your vet first and then transport ASAP.

There are two ways to treat a poisonous snakebite. The first is with anti-venom. Many vets do not stock this because it is very expensive and has an expiration date. Anti-venom can be as harmful to the pet as the snakebite itself. The second is to treat it as an allergic reaction with antibiotics, steriods and fluid replacement. The sooner you treat it, the better the chance of recovery. If you live in an area with poisonous snakes, a constricting band in your pet first aid kit would be a good idea. In addition, you may want to discuss your veterinarians’ protocols.

b.      Treat non-poisonous snakebites as wounds. Inform your vet, as he may want to prescribe a round of antibiotics.

c.       A poisonous snakebite will have two clear fang marks. A non-poisonous snakebite will have two semicircles of teeth marks.

2.       Coyotes

Though coyotes hunt mainly during dusk and dawn, females will hunt during the day to feed hungry pups. Do not think your 90lb. golden is safe. Coyotes can hunt in packs. You should leash your pet while walking and keep cats indoors during peak hunting times. I walk my dogs with an air horn.  You will find them at hardware and marine stores. It is small enough to fit in a jacket pocket. The loud noise will scare off a non-rabid coyote if you are confronted with one.

3.       Animal Bites

Bats, raccoons, skunks and other animals are out in full force. Rabies vaccines should be current. If bitten, the wound will need treatment. In addition, your vet will give your pet a rabies booster.

4.       Skunks

You have a short window to deskunk your pet. The skunks’ spray is oil based. The longer you wait, the more the spray becomes absorbed by the skin. A deskunking kit should be ready prior to skunk season. My kit contains a plastic bucket, scrubber, small box of baking soda, small bottle of hydrogen peroxide, eyewash and a small bottle of pet degreasing shampoo.  It will work better on a dry coat. I will rinse the eyes before and after the wash. Combine the rest of the ingredients with water and mix well. Scrub the area and rinse well. Throw away any cloth collars, as they are not salvageable.

5.       Insect Bites

Be mindful of insect, bee and spider bites. They can cause your pet to go into anaphylactic shock. This is life threatening. Do not use tweezers to remove a stinger as it will squeeze more venom into the body. Use a credit card instead. Place the card under the stinger to lift it up and then flick it out. Symptoms of anaphylactic shock include pain, redness and swelling at site, unconsciousness, seizures, excessive salivation, vomiting and respiratory distress. This is similar to snakebite. Keeping calm will help your pet to stay calm. Your pet may lick at the area. You should always investigate what your pet is licking. Your first aid kit should contain an antihistamine already dosed for your pet by your veterinarian. If you suspect anaphylactic shock, call your veterinarian ASAP for instructions.

6.       Gardening

a.       When planning your garden, know which plants, bulbs and shrubs are hazardous to your pets. The ASPCA’s website: www.aspca.org has a comprehensive list of poisonous plantings.

b.      Many commercial types of mulch treat with chemicals that are hazardous to your pets. Cocoa mulches can also be toxic.

c.       Store fertilizers and pesticides in the original containers and away from your pets.  Keep pets away from treated areas. Your pets will absorb toxins through the skin or pads of feet. Pets may also lick their paws and ingest the poison.

7.       Poisoning

a.       Poison Control’s Phone Number is 888-426-4435. This number should always be handy. You can get a refrigerator magnet at their website: www.aspca.org.

b.      Frontline can be fatal for rabbits. As with any product, use it in its intended manner. The label must indicate it is safe for your pet.

c.       Keep Valentine and Easter candy out of reach. Chocolate contains Theobromine. It affects the heart and circulatory systems. Even small amounts are dangerous. They cannot process Theobromine and it builds up in their bodies. Sugar-free candy contains xylitol which is fatal to dogs and cats.

d.      Keep track of where you hide the Easter Eggs. You do not want your pets to eat a rotten one.

8.       Weather

a.       Spring storms bring thunder and lightning. It can be fearful for some pets. It may cause them to flee. Make sure your pet is well-identified. A well-identified pet stands a better chance of coming home.

b.      We will transition from cold to heat related injuries. A pet can suffer a heatstroke in a parked car when the temperature exceeds 78 degrees in 15 minutes. A pet suffering from heat stroke needs immediate care. You need to cool them off gradually using lukewarm water. Do not use cold water or ice as it will cause the capillaries to constrict and create a thermal barrier. This thermal barrier will hinder your pets’ ability to cool down.  Call your veterinarian ASAP for instructions.

9.       Miscellaneous

a.       Do you know where your emergency hospital is? Do you have their phone number handy? Calling them before you leave will give them time to prepare for your arrival. They will also give you any instructions that you may need. You should make a practice run so you will know their exact location. It is not a good idea to try to locate them in a state of panic.

b.      Do you take a first aid kit along when you hike? Here is a link to a previous article on pet first aid kits: www.groomwise.typepad.com/pet_first_aid_care/kits/.

c.       Antifreeze leaks can happen any time of the year. They clean up easily with soap and water.

As we wait for the snow to melt and the buds to bloom, take a few minutes to Spring-proof your pets’ life. They will thank you for it.


Winter Safety Tips

Yet another winter is upon us and I would like to share a few tips to keep our pets safe during this time of year.

Car Safety

Look out for antifreeze leaks. It has a sweet taste that attracts dogs and cats. It is very poisonous and its' bright green color is a DEAD giveaway. It cleans up easily with soap and water.

Outdoor cats looking for warmth frequently sleep on car engines. Banging loudly on the hood before starting your engine  should rouse them.

Leaving your pet in your car while you shop at the mall is like leaving them in a refrigerator. The car retains the cold and your pet could suffer from hypothermia. On the flip side, you do not want to leave them in the car with the engine idling. A couple of weeks ago in Long Island, NY, a man went into a Cool Beans for a cup of coffee and left his car running. His dog knocked the gear shift into drive and proceeded to go for a ride. He ended up IN the business next door. Fortunately, there were no injuries.

The Great Outdoors

Animals that spend a lot of time outside need more food. In particular, a higher protein diet is required.

The very young and the very old have little tolerance for the cold weather.

According to the ASPCA, more dogs are lost during snowstorms than at any other time. They can lose their scent and become disoriented and lost. Remember, a well identified dog has a greater chance of returning home.

You should use pet safe ice melt. When that is not possible, or you are unsure of what is being used; their feet should be washed BEFORE they get a chance to lick them.

Indoors

Insects will be coming into our homes for the winter. Watch for spider and insect bites and be familiar with the signs of anaphylactic shock. Insect traps tend to be baited with something tasty, so keep them out of your pet's reach.

The Holiday Season is in full swing.

Decorations

The most common plant is the poinsettia. It is toxic. Keep it out of reach of your pets.

Chewing on electrical cords can cause cardiac arrest. Tripping on electrical cords can cause broken body parts and sudden blunt force trauma. (OK, maybe more of an issue for me.) Dogs chasing after something have been known to be dragging a Christmas tree behind them after a cord was snagged on a paw.

Glass ornaments can pose a problem for those pets that confuse them with tennis balls.

Garland and tinsel is a particular problem for cats. Remember to never pull it out of your cat as there may be an ornament hook at the other end.

Pine water is poisonous to pets. Fertilizers and pesticides will leach out into the water bowl.

Holiday Food and Drinks

Alcoholic beverages can cause intoxication, coma and death.

Coffee, tea and other caffeine products contain theobromine. It can be toxic and it affects the cardio and nervous systems.

Ham, fat trimmings and turkey skin can cause pancreatitis.

Cooked bones can cause intestional obstruction and lacerations of the digestive system.

Stuffings may contain sage, onions, mushrooms and raisins.

Too many sweets can cause obesity and diabetes. Artificial sugars are toxic especially xylitol.

Holiday snack trays may contain macademia nuts and grapes.

Chocolate contains theobromine.

TIP: Broccoli can cause digestive upset and VERY gassy pets. You may want to keep that to a minimum unless you want your guests running for cover.

You also want to provide your pets with a quiet place during the holiday parties. Even small gatherings can be stressful for them.

Cold Injuries

Cold injuries are caused by extreme or prolonged exposure to low temperatures. The most common areas affected are the tail, ears, paws and scrotum. A snout to tail assessment is always a good idea after coming in from the outdoors. You would check for ice and salt in the pads and for any signs of frostbite or hypothermia.

The skin can become swollen, red and very painful. In later stages, it can become hard and pale. Additional signs of frostbite and hypothermia include shivering, slow shallow breathing, lethargy, decreased heart rate and gums either pale or bluish in color.

If you suspect frostbite or hypothermia, you should first make sure the pet is out of the cold. DO NOT RUB THE AFFECTED AREA. The frozen ice crystals in the skin can lacerate the skin cells. Contact your vet for rewarming instructions. This is very important so that you can prevent further pain, stave off infection and minimize the possible tissue damage.

I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe holiday season.