Margie's Corner
Keepin' It Safe at the Dog Park
Mention a trip to the dog park, and tails usually start wagging. The fresh air, exercise, and socializing are great for your pooch. To keep these outings safe and fun for everyone, ask yourself a couple of questions before bounding out the door:
Are your dog's vaccinations up to date? This helps reduce the chance of picking up any illnesses from other dogs on the playground. Are you confident about your dog's training? Dog parks can be hectic places. But knowing that your pet will respond to your voice commands, even while playing with other dogs, will make it a more relaxing outing.
Dog Safety – Your Dog and the Outside World:
When transporting dogs in vehicles, walking them in parks, or keeping them outside on your property, dogs can encounter people, other animals, or dangerous materials. Taking a few precautions can reduce your dog's risk of finding trouble.
Transportation: Crates and/or carriers are the safest way to transport your dog in all types of vehicles. If a carrier is not available, try one of the following restraints: a harness with a seat belt; screens (to fence off an area in a car or truck); or a regular leash attached to the armrest. Caution: Pickup leashes can lead to a dog's death by strangulation.
Walking. The safest way to walk your dog in public is on a leash. Leashes come in many different styles and lengths. Short leashes are recommended for busy and congested streets so you can keep him or her close to your side. Longer leashes can be used at parks or beaches.
Fences. Securing your property is the safest way to control your dog's environment. Fences will keep him or her on your property and keep other dogs or strangers out. Fences vary by type, from the standard wooden fence to invisible electronic devices.
“Pets and Poisons”
SUGAR FREE GUM COULD BE TOXIC TO A 20 POUND DOG
Warning: Do not feed Xylitol or give your Dog access to Xylitol and Xylitol Products. While Xylitol has gone through many years of testing to make sure it is not only safe, but very good for humans, dogs are a different matter. When some dogs eat xylitol, they have an immediate drop in blood sugar. This can result in seizures, depression, loss of coordination, liver damage, and even death. While it is not known if this is true with cats other pets, it would be better safe than sorry until more information is known. - Dr. Jeanette Lubeanau, owner of Above and Beyond Pet Care Hospital in Lubbock- http://www.snopes.com/critters/crusader/xylitol.asp
Thousands of animals are accidentally poisoned every year. Your home and your pet’s world can be safe and healthy. Look closely at the places your pet goes. With a systematic approach, take time to safeguard against poisonings by keeping products that could be harmful WELL OUT OF REACH…..In and outside the house keep, this product out of reach – they are very toxic:
Medications, Cleaning Products, Household Plants and Outside Plants – can be very toxic – (a nursery or garden center can assist you in identifying these plaints or visit ……http://www.fabcats.org/hiddendangersofplants.htm), Chocolate, Nicotine/Tobacco, Mothballs, Alkaline Batteries, Antifreeze and Windshield Washer Fluid, Petroleum Products, Paint, Pesticides, Flea Powders – some shampoos, heartworm, medications or other pet products should be used according to directions only.
Emergency Phone Numbers:
Animal Poison Control Center – 1-800-548-2423
Florida Poison Information - 1-800-222-1222
