Pet Safety Advice From the Experts
Pet Safety Advice From the Experts
Editor: Information from SPCA International/ Global Animal Rescue. PO Box 96222-Washington, D.C. 20077/ spcai.org/ Please, donate as often as you can-SAVE A LIFE.
By D.S. Mitchell
- Avoid feeding your pets human food. It is not healthy for them and is a primary cause of significant weight gain, which is not good for our fur babies. The food can also contain allergens that you may be unaware of and will increase the danger to your pets.
- Be sure to avoid giving your pet any food that contains Xylitol (an artificial sweetener). This chemical is extremely harmful to animals. Yummy human treats like ice cream can be bad news for pets. Most adult pets are lactose intolerant, and as we all know ice cream has a milk base. Furthermore, ice cream contains high levels of sugar and fat that can cause severe stomach upset, obesity, or painful pancreatitis. Certain flavors and sugar-free options also contain fatal toxins.
- Changing seasons is a great time to check your pet’s ID tags and microchip. Just take five minutes to make sure all your pet’s information is current and in proper order.
- Be sure to check you pet’s collar frequently, ensuring that it is not too tight causing pain and discomfort for the animal. Just as important, make sure the collar is not loose, which could cause your pet to lose the collar and possibly escape with no identification.
- When walking or hiking with your dog be aware of wildlife, for your safety as well as your pet’s.
- Adult deer ticks are prevalent in the late summer and fall. Deer ticks are responsible for spreading Lyme disease-which can be a danger for you and your pet. Use a tick and flea preventative spray to keep the bugs away. Ticks live in long grass, so mow your lawn regularly and confine your pets to help keep your tick problem under control.
- Whether it is summer or winter don’t leave your pets outside for prolonged periods of time. It doesn’t take long for a pet to become overheated or too cold; particularly puppies, kittens, senior pets and smaller breeds.
- Abandoned animals are, sadly, a part of our culture. Go to a rescue shelter and adopt an animal-SAVE A LIFE.
