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| Pets Source: Andrewr, cc-by-3.0, flickr |
You love your furry friend, but you may be subjecting them to health issues without even knowing it. Of course you know certain things that you should keep away from your pet, but there are normal household objects that could pose dangers you are not even aware of. Watch out for these common pet killers and keep your pet safe.
1. Outside Chemicals
You probably already know that some things should be kept away from your pet, like cleaning products and pest poison, but there may be some things you are overlooking. According to the Humane Society, antifreeze has a sweet taste that may entice pets to drink it, but as little as one teaspoon could kill a seven-pound cat. Any pesticides or fertilizer that you use in the yard could also prove lethal for your pet, so keep an eye on them when you let them outside or into your garage.
2. Inside Choking Hazards
Many things in your house could be easily digested and become stuck in your pet’s throat. Never give your pet string or yarn to play with because it can be swallowed and wrap up in their digestive system. Rubber bands, and even dental floss, can also be a choking hazard.
Make sure you supervise your pets when they play with their toys, as small pieces or parts of their toys could become broken or fall off. Anything with small parts that you wouldn’t let a baby play with, you shouldn’t let your pet play with either.
3. Human Medication
Never give your pet any of your medication, unless your veterinarian has specifically told you it’s okay. Healthy Pet says that just two extra-strength tablets within 24 hours can kill a small pet. Always make sure that you keep your medication tightly closed and well out of reach of your pet.
4. Plants
Some plants may be poisonous to your pet. You may not think about it because you don’t expect Fluffy to eat your pretty flower, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Seasonal plants like Easter lilies, mistletoe, and poinsettias are toxic for animals. If you feel the need to have these in your home, make sure you keep them well out of reach.
5. Table Scraps
Fido may beg for a piece of your dinner, but it’s important not to give him any. Those puppy eyes may be hard to turn down, so consider feeding your pet when you feed yourself. Chocolate and onions can be lethal for pets, and lots of other foods can make your pet sick.
To avoid this, make sure that your pet only eats food specifically made for them. Chicken bones and other small bones should never be given to your dog to chew on because they could break and become lodged in your pet’s throat. Even rawhide bones need to be given only with supervision because pieces can fracture off and pose choking hazards.
Even the most vigilant pet owners may find their pet has gotten into something. If this happens, keep calm and call your veterinarian. If your pet has been poisoned, some symptoms could include listlessness, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, lack of coordination, and fever.
Whether you live in Vancouver or Burnaby, veterinary hospitals will be able to help you. You will need to know your pet’s age, breed, gender, what they were exposed to, how long ago the exposure happened, and the symptoms your pet is displaying.
Victoria Ramos studied business and now blogs about developments in the field, as well as her other interests. She loves shopping, socializing, hosting parties, decorating, and writing. She currently lives with her dog, Pablo, and trusts the veterinary care of Central Animal Emergency Clinic.
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