Keeping Your Pets Safe On The 4th of July

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Whether the neighborhood teens are throwing firecrackers on your street… or your entire community is enjoying “the exuberant splendor” of a big fireworks display, your pet can become frantic and run away, trying to find a safe haven.

More pets go missing around the 4th of July than any other time of year, and noisy fireworks are to blame.

According to national statistics, animal control officials across the country see a 30-60% increase in lost pets each year between July 4th and 6th. In fact, July 5th is one of the busiest days of the year for shelters.

Mark Jakubczak, Certified Pet Detective and Founder, PetAmberAlert™, is committed to increasing the chance of beloved lost pets returning home. He said, “Sadly, only 14% of lost pets are returned to their owners, according to nationwide statistics. And worse, 30-60% of lost pets are euthanized because they cannot be properly identified and returned to their owners. That’s why we’re hoping to reach more pet owners and reduce these trends with our infographic.”

PetAmberAlert’s July 4th Lost Pets Infographic called “Afraid on the 4th – Keeps Pets Safe” puts a spotlight on the alarming statistics and provides tips on how pet owners can protect their pets.

Here are 4 simple tips on how to keep pets safe… plus a bonus tip on how pet owners can have a better chance of finding a lost pet.

1) Stay inside: Try to keep your pet indoors at all times during holiday celebrations. Ideally, someone stays home with your pet. Also keep your dog leashed when going out for walks.

2) Make them feel safe: Comfort your pets with petting, hugging, talking to them in a soothing voice, providing a treat and staying nearby if possible. Make sure they can access their crate or “safe place.” Also ask your veterinarian or local pet retailer about natural calming products, anxiety wraps and other products that can help.

3) Avoid the noise. Try to drown out the fireworks sounds as much as possible by closing windows, playing music or turning on the TV.

4) Act normal! Your pet takes cues from your and your family’s actions. It will help if you go about your normal routine as much as possible, talking and playing with your pet as usual.

5) Protect your pet before the fireworks begin. There are a number of lost-pet devices and services available today, and it’s wise to be proactive in case your pet gets lost. Among the various pet-finder services available, the Pet Amber Alert ID Tag/Pet GPS combines Amber Alert technology with a QR Code and pet GPS to help MORE lost dogs, cats and even birds return home safely.

By following these tips, hopefully fewer families will face the heartbreak of losing a pet during the July 4th holiday.

https://www.petamberalert.com/blog/keeping-your-pets-safe-on-the-4th-of-july/

NOISE PHOBIAS – Stop the Suffering!

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If your pet suffers from noise phobia, you probably cringe every time thunder­storms are forecast. Instead of celebrating the Fourth of July, you probably dread this firecracker-filled holiday. Dogs in particular, with their keen sense of hearing, often suffer from noise phobia and their frightened behavior can be stressful for their owners as well. As if your pet’s trembling and …

9 pet safety tips for the Fourth of July

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  The Fourth of July can be a great holiday for humans, but a stressful day for many pets. KUSA – The Fourth of July can be a great holiday for humans, but a stressful day for many pets who may become frightened by the bright lights and loud sounds of fireworks. Tripswithpets.com shared nine ways to keep your pet …

Protecting Your Pets from Dangerous Mosquito Bites

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How to Protect Your Pets from Mosquito Bites Mosquitoes aren’t only drawn to humans, they also bite animals, including our pets. Mosquito bites for animals are just as aggravating and irritating as they are to us, and animals can also acquire diseases from mosquitoes, such as West Nile virus and heartworm, which are transmitted by mosquitoes. And, since we, humans, …

SWIMMING WITH YOUR PETS CAN BE FUN, BUT CAN ALSO BE VERY DANGEROUS

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The constant exposure to water and sun is very drying to any pet’s coat and skin. This is particularly true of chlorinated pool water and ocean water, in which chemicals, and salt can remove the vital oils and moisture from your pet’s coat. Fresh water, of course, is less damaging, but a whole summer of swimming in it can irritate a dog or cat just as much as seawater.

The results of a summer at the beach can take a real toll on a pet, leaving him with dry hair, itchy skin, and a bleached coat. A good shampoo and moisturizer are a must for any pet who’s going to spend a lot of time in the water. If your basset hound is going to be at the shore for two months, you should rinse him off daily to get most of the salt out and followed up with a good conditioner once a week. Don’t let a dry coat go to long. If you neglect it, your pet will scratch himself into a serious skin problem that can only be handled by a veterinarian.

Another hazard of swimming and water sports is the amount of time spent in the sun. We’ve all learned in recent years that a gorgeous tan is not necessarily the best thing for our skin, and same is true for our pets. Overexposure can be harmful to skin,coat,eyes, and paws, and ultimately the life of the dog or cat. Too many rays can damage the eyes, and running on hot sand all day can create sore, sensitive pads.

Keep an eye out for wildlife, particularly at the beach, Sand fleas can be annoying, but a horseshoe crab, man-of-war or jelly fish can cause a nasty sting. If your dog has never seen one of these creatures before, he’ll probably want to stick his nose right up against it and examine it closely. It’s always a better to steer him away from sea creatures that might prove harmful to him.

Never wade in a rocky area. A sharp rock or piece of coral can cut right through the soft flesh of the paw.

****Check out the article on “Heat Stroke” at www.thepetshow.com

Hot Weather Alert

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Summer is here! Enjoy the beautiful weather and outdoor activities with your pets but be aware of the hazards that accompany the season:

  1. Whether you live in a private home or apartment, you’ll be temped to open windows to cool the rooms. Be sure to keep screens or protective bars on your windows to prevent escapes and falls. For those of you owned by cats, window bars should be narrow enough to keep kitty from squeezing through. And bird-owners should make sure their feathered friends are protected from drafts.

  2. Outdoor activities mean opening and closing doors more frequently. Be sure that you know where your pets are at all times.

  3. Along with summer, out come pool chemicals and barbecue grill cleaning aerosols. Keep your household cleaners and chemicals out of your pet’s reach.

  4. Some common types of houseplants and outdoor bushes, flowers and shrubs can be poisonous to your pets. If you have any doubts about the safety of the plants in your home or on your property, check with your local nursery or garden center.

  5. Tools, especially gardening tools, have sharp points that can puncture paws or worse. Do not leave your tools and implements out where your pets can get to them.

    6. Speaking of gardening, use special care when mowing the lawn and applying fertilizers and lawn chemicals. Cocoa mulch, which is sold by garden supply stores & mass merchants, contains a lethal ingredient called “theobromine” which is lethal to dogs and cats. It smells like chocolate and really attracts dogs. Just a word of caution: check what you are using in your gardens, and beware of what your gardeners are using in your gardens.

    Pets or neighborhood animals walking on treated lawns can get these products on their paws, and then lick it off. If enough is ingested, illness or even death can result. Read and follow the manufactures’ directions and warnings.

  6. The hot weather means barbeques. Great smells wafting off the grill are dangerous temptations to your pets. Be sure to keep them away from the hot grill.

  7. As the boating and beach season begins, it’s important to remember that not all pets know how to swim. If you’re planning to take Fido out on the boat, you might want to consider getting him a doggy life preserver – yes, they are available! And remember, fishhooks can be very painful if they become embedded in tiny paws or curious noses.

  8. NEVER leave your pet unattended in your car. While I am against this practice in any weather, it is particularly true in the warmer weather. Don’t lull yourself into a false sense of security by leaving the windows open. This may not prevent heatstroke and may even encourage the theft of your beloved pet.

By following the above suggestions, you and your pet can safely enjoy the season’s warm weather.

TRAVELING WITH YOUR FURRY FRIENDS

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If Fluffy and Fido refuse to be left behind on your vacation, have no fear – Warren Eckstein has some advice to help make sure you all have a happy and safe time.

Pets are a very important part of most families, and more than ever before, people are including their pets when traveling or on family vacations. Pets can add many new dimensions. It’s always easier to meet new people when your pet is with you. But, you have to keep in mind that travel is not right for all pets. Age, physical conditions and temperament should always be taken into consideration. The key is to prepare in advance.

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO BEFORE YOU GO:

PEOPLE PREPARATION

Call in advance: Whether you’re renting a house or staying at a hotel or motel, be sure to contact the property. Tell them you want to make special arrangements to bring your pet. Often properties have restrictions on the number, type, size or weight of the pets they allow. Also, pets may be restricted to smoking rooms or certain areas of the property. So ask a lot of questions.

Fees: Be sure to ask about any non-refundable fees or refundable deposits that are required.

Home alone: Ask if your pet is allowed to be left unattended while in the room and, if so, if the pet must be crated.

Ground floor: You may want to request a ground-floor room to make late night walks a little easier.

Hotels: There are some chains at every level that are pet friendly. They include:

La Quinta inns:

They have 350 pet-friendly locations from coast to coast. Cats and dogs up to 50 pounds are accepted in all guest rooms nationwide.

Loews hotels:

All pets are VIPs. You get information on local dog walking routes and area pet services and pet friendly restaurants. Amenities include food and water bowls with placemats, toys and treats. Pet room service menus are available, including vegetarian entrees. Pet walking and sitting services are available. Loews will even supply leashes, collars, litter boxes and pooper scoopers.

Orient Express hotels:

They have four luxury hotels: Windsor Court in New Orleans, The Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michael’s, Maryland; Keswick Hall, Charlottesville, VA; Charleston Place, Charleston, S.C. The staff is very welcoming and guests with pets say it’s worth every penny.

If you are in Los Angeles, the Beverly Hills Hotel makes pets welcome with a ‘Canine Connoisseur Program.’ Everything from doggie dishes to dog beds, personalized homemade cookies, room service menu and a 24-hour dog walking service.

There are also bed & breakfasts that cater to or welcome pets. Always call in advance to check it out.

PET PREPARATION

Vet visit: Before you go on a trip with your pet, you should always take them to the vet. As you’ll see below, get a health certificate listing latest shots, copies of prescriptions, your vet’s name and phone number.

Medication: Check your supply and fill up if need be.

Sedatives: Don’t give sedatives without checking with you vet. It could interfere with your pet’s ability to maintain his balance and equilibrium which could prevent your pet from being able to brace himself and prevent injury. Air travel while under the influence of these medications is especially dangerous as exposure to increased altitude can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

Food: If you’re not sure if your pet’s regular brand of food is available during your travels, bring enough of it with you.

Kitty litter: You should pack your cat’s regular litter box and kitty litter. It can be disturbing to use other kinds of litter.

CAR TRAVEL

Desensitize: This is especially true if the only time your pet goes in the car is to go to the vet. They might not be so thrilled to pile in with the family for an eight-hour drive to the beach.

Use a carrier or doggie seat belt: It’s much safer in case of an accident and it will prevent Fido or Fluffy from distracting the driver.

Noses inside: Never permit your pet to hang his head out the window. Each year pets escape into traffic or suffer eye injuries from blowing debris. It can also give them respiratory problems.

Stops: Make sure to build in ample stops for walks and water.

Never alone: Never leave your pet unattended in the car. The temperature increases and dehydration and heatstroke can set in rapidly.

MAKE SURE TO BRING:

* Extra leash and collar
* I.D. tag with two numbers – one at home, one where you are staying
* Food and water dishes
* Bottle water/treats from home. You don’t know what’s in the water on the road, it might upset their stomachs.
* Cooler with ice: Pets are very susceptible to heatstroke.
* Health certificate/vet’s name and number
* A dirty blanket from home
* Favorite toys
* A recent photo and written description including name, breed, gender, height, weight, coloring and distinctive markings
* Grooming supplies
* Flea and tick repellents
* First aid kit
* Pre-moistened wipes with no alcohol

Hot Weather – Cool Pets

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    With the hot weather we’ll all be enjoying outside activities, and there are special safety concerns when it comes to your four-footed friends. Pet expert Warren Eckstein has some advice on how to keep your pets cool in hot weather.   HEATSTROKE This is the most serious and dangerous thing to worry about with your pet in the …

Warning – Heatstroke Can Be Hazardous to Your Pet’s Health!

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Although it may occur at any time of the year, heatstroke is particularly prevalent as the weather turns warmer.

Heatstroke occurs when the environment becomes too hot and too humid for your pet’s natural temperature-control mechanisms to work. Our pets rely on panting and sweating to maintain their normal body temperatures. However, unlike people, dogs and cats only possess efficient sweat glands on the pads of their feet. That’s why although you may not feel over-heated; you must pay special attention to your pet. If you don’t, the result could be deadly.

The best treatment of heatstroke is its prevention in the first place. Never keep you pet unattended in a car. Even if the temperature is moderate outside and the windows are open, our cars can heat up like ovens. Never keep your pet closed-up in a pen or kennel without shade, adequate ventilation, or water. Remember, the sun moves as the day progresses, so an area that was shaded in the morning may be full sun later in the day. And use common sense when exercising your pet – exercise elevates your pet’s body temperature.

Just as with people, use special care with younger or older pets – they tend to be more sensitive. And pets with “pushed-in” noses, such as Persian cats, pugs and bull dogs, are particularly prone to heatstroke. The anatomical structure of their noses and throats decreases air flow – thereby inhibiting the natural cooling process.

Here are some symptoms of heatstroke:

  1. Excessive panting.
  2. Vomiting and diarrhea.
  3. Elevated body temperature.
  4. Hot, dry skin.
  5. Pale lips and gums.
  6. Collapse and coma.

If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, you must take immediate action by doing the following:

  1. Remove the stricken pet from the hot environment to a shady, cool place.
  2. Lower your pet’s body temperature with cold water.
  3. If at all possible, place him in front of a fan to speed-up the cooling process.
  4. Gently massage his legs and body.
  5. If your pet is conscious, let him drink small amounts of water and wash his mouth with cool water to help the cooling process.
  6. GET YOUR PET TO THE VET IMMIDEIATLEY.