Spring into Action if Your Pet Gets into Something Poisonous
Get Outside with Your Dog and Have Fun
Tips to Keep Children Safe around Your Pets
Spring into Action if Your Pet Gets into Something Poisonous
You suspect your pet has gotten into something poisonous. Depending on what your pet ingests, there can be minor side effects, but some can lead to death.
According to “Poisons (Swallowed)” at Petmd.com, watch for certain signs if you suspect poisoning. From general lethargy, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, drooling and nausea to more severe signs such as agitation, tremors, twitching and seizures, call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680 for help.
Remember that dogs are very curious and many will put anything in their mouths, so when poison is ingested, it’s most likely by accident. “Sometimes, owners may self-medicate their pet, only to find out days later, when their pet is symptomatic, that the medication is poisonous to pets due to their altered ability to metabolize certain drugs,” the article said.
If your pet gets into poison, the article recommends the following:
- Remove the pet from poison source. Before handling, determine safety and if rubber gloves or mask are needed.
- Identify poison and bring the contents and label to your vet.
- If your pet vomits, bring a sample. Do not induce vomiting unless consulting your vet or Pet Poison Helpline.
- Contact the Helpline on the way to your vet.
Some common poisonous household products to avoid include: drain cleaner, oven cleaner, toilet cleaner, kerosene, gasoline, paint thinner and chlorine bleach. If your pet is exposed to any of these products, remain calm and immediately get to the vet.
It is always best to practice prevention in your home and to “treat your dog as you would a young, inquisitive child,” the article said. Pet proof your home, keep chemicals stored away safely, store medication separately from your pet’s medications and administer correct drugs to your pet.
Remember, an ounce of prevention really helps when it comes to keeping pets safe.
Get Outside with Your Dog and Have Fun
Spring is a fabulous time of year to get outside with your dog. There are many things in the Valley to have fun, get exercise and explore the great outdoors.
SheKnows.com has great ideas from Dog’s Day Out in Phoenix, AZ, so take note:
- Arizona Biltmore Fashion Park. If you both love to shop, this is the place. “This outdoor mall is perfect for strolling along and window shopping with your pooch,” the article said. “Select stores even allow your well trained dog to accompany you.”
- Cosmo Dog Park. This off-leash dog park in Gilbert has lots to do, featuring four fun-filled fenced acres. There’s nighttime lighting, wash stations, and even a separate space for smaller dogs. “But the main attraction at Cosmo Dog Park is the man-made lake that is a favorite for water-loving breeds,” the article said.
- Music on Mill. Music lovers and their dogs can enjoy free music in Tempe’s Mill Avenue district from September through June on Thursday nights from 5 to 9 p.m.
- Cupcakes from Sprinkles. This place offers delicious delights for Valley residents, but did you know they have doggie cupcakes, too? Take a stroll on the Soleri Bridge in Scottsdale and exercise before you indulge. Then make sure you take a walk afterward to burn it off.
Surprise Stadium. For baseball loving dogs and peeps, try spring training. “At Surprise Stadium, owners can take in a ball game with their dogs in a specially-designated area,” the article said. It costs $11 for people and $5 for dogs who must be leashed at all times. “Walk-ins aren’t typically allowed during the Bring Your Dog to the Ball Park event, so be sure to register and buy your tickets in advance.”
Tips to Keep Children Safe around Your Pets
A pet can be one of the best things about childhood. With pets come responsibilities, so it is important to ensure children know the rules and that parents are always supervising.
According to the article “Teaching Children Pet Safety Rules,” from North Shore Animal League America, benefits of pets include “increases in self-esteem, nurturing skills, cooperation and, best of all, the creation of an unconditional, loving bond that brings immeasurable joy to your entire family.”
When bringing home a pet, everyone must follow simple rules to help “guard against injuries such as bites and scratches, which are often caused by children yanking an animal’s tail, chasing or cornering it or approaching it suddenly,” the article said.
Dogs are “pack animals” and live by a “social hierarchy,” as explained in the article by Kim Lasek, North Shore Animal League America’s head trainer. It is very important to “establish every person in the family as an authority figure or ‘pack leader’ to the dog by simple, everyday interactions.”
The article offers tips for a safe, happy relationship, including:
- Accidents can happen, so never leave children and pets unsupervised.
- Never approach animals while they are eating, sleeping, caring for their babies, in a crate or chewing on a toy.
- Pet gently. Do not pull or tug or approach from behind.
- Ask permission from an adult before approaching an unknown animal.
- Refrain from making loud noises and sudden moves when approaching an animal.
- Do not make contact with dog or cat waste.
- Children should not touch or stand near dogs when they are excited, such as during meal time or when someone comes to the front door.
Ensure your children know that pets are living beings with feelings, the article said. They must be respected and cared for with lots of love.
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