Your dog is a precious member of the family who counts on you for his emotional well-being as well as his health and safety. Because dogs share our home environments, there may be little at first glance that appears unsafe. However, a close examination of your home - from your dog’s perspective - may reveal areas that require attention or modification for the sake of safety.
- Avoid unsafe toys and chewables such as rope-like objects (which can cause intestinal obstruction), and cow hooves (which will splinter dangerously into jagged pieces). Safer toys include compressed rawhide, nylon bones, thick rubber toys and any toy (with the exception of cow hooves) used under supervision.
- If your dog is fond of drinking from the toilet (a commonly chosen source of fresh water, believe it or not!), do not use toxic chemical cleaners.
- Train your dog never to dash out the door unexpectedly. Such “escapes” often lead to loss and injury, including car accidents.
- Dogs lack our sense of height and depth: if you live in a high-rise building or if your dog has access to second story windows and decks, use screens and safely spaced bars to prevent jumping or accidental falls.
- Place non-skid matting or carpet on slick linoleum and hardwood floors where your dog is likely to move quickly. An accidental slip can result in serious injury such as torn cruciate ligaments.
- If you have a young puppy or elderly dog, a baby gate at the top of a stairwell can help prevent accidental falls and serious injury.
- Remove or avoid household toxins including toxic plants, strong chemical cleaners and environmental insecticides. Whenever possible, consider the use of alternative, “green” products.
- Take advantage of dog crates and baby gates to restrict your puppy or adult dog from potential hazards when she cannot be supervised.
- Even indoor environments can reach temperature extremes. Clipping your long-haired dog for the summer months can keep him comfortably cool, and provide fans on extremely hot days.
- Keep a collar and identification tag on your dog at all times, even when indoors.
- Obtain pet safety stickers from your local fire department to help firefighters identify the presence and location of pets in case of fire.
Dog Health: Home Safety Checklist
Reply With Quote
