Keeping Your Home Safe for Dogs: Common Hazards to Watch Out For
Owning a dog can offer incredible rewards. Dogs provide us with love, companionship, and joy. However, it’s crucial to remember that dogs are naturally curious and enjoy exploring their surroundings. This can expose them to potential hazards within our homes. Even if you believe your home is safe for your dog, you may unknowingly have items that are toxic to them. It’s vital to watch out for these dangers while cleaning your house. Many common household items can poison dogs, so it’s best to exercise caution. Remember, dog hazards lurk everywhere, and staying aware of them is key to keeping your furry friend safe.
FOOD
It’s common knowledge that chocolate is harmful to dogs, but other foods we might assume are safe and even healthy for our pets can actually harm them or cause death if we’re not careful. Some of these include:
– Any food or drink containing caffeine
– Synthetic sweeteners and sugar replacements, found in various products like diet yogurts and ketchup
– Grapes and raisins
– Mushrooms
– Moldy food
– Poultry bones
To keep your pet healthy and happy for years to come, sticking to pet food and treats specially formulated for their needs is best. Avoiding these potentially harmful foods can help ensure your furry friend stays safe and healthy.
MEDICINE
Human pharmaceuticals, like pain relievers, may benefit humans but pose risks to our four-legged pals. Acetaminophen, present in medications such as Tylenol, can obstruct oxygen flow and harm a dog’s liver irreparably. Hence, consulting a vet before giving human medication to your dog is always advised.
Veterinary pharmaceuticals, tailored for animals, can be prescribed by a vet. Yet, remember that pets can overdose on these drugs. Flavored oral doses are common to appeal to animals. If your dog accidentally consumes these drugs, it can be harmful or fatal. Also, note that a drug or dose suitable for one size, breed, or species may not be safe for another. Therefore, only use drugs prescribed by your vet and avoid using medications intended for other animals.
ELECTRONICS
Puppies, bunnies, and kittens, just like babies, are attracted to electrical wires, cords, and cables. They may play with them or chew on them, but doing so puts them at risk of burning or electrocution. It’s important to consider your new pet as a curious toddler and take necessary precautions to keep them safe.
GARBAGE
If you plan to have a big cookout, remember that the garbage produced during the event could pose a serious hazard to your dog. Your furry friend may find items like rib bones, corn cobs, and steak fat tempting, but these can cause significant harm and should be disposed of safely to prevent any potential health issues.
MARIJUANA
With the recent legalization of marijuana in Canada, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks to your furry friend. Although dogs find edible marijuana products most attractive, they have been known to consume baggies of buds straight up. While marijuana toxicity typically isn’t fatal, recent reports have indicated rare fatalities after pets consumed medical-grade products.
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