Winter Hazards for Pets

Winter Hazards for Pets

Extreme winter conditions can be harmful to pets.  Provide them with shelter and some pets may need to come inside on cold days.  Cold conditions may cause hypothermia or frostbite.

Cats and kittens sometimes nap in car engines since they are warm.  Before starting your car knock on the hood or honk your horn.  

Pets like the smell and taste of antifreeze.  Even a small amount can be deadly.  Thoroughly clean any spells.  

Remove ice, salt or caked mud from your pets paws.  Some salts can be toxic if ingested.  

Poinsettias and mistletoe can be toxic to your pet in ingested.

Dogs have about 100 different facial expressions and most of them are made with the ears. What do you call your favorite pet expression?

A #cat's tongue is scratchy because it's lined with papillae—tiny elevated backwards hooks that help your cat groom itself #themoreyouknow

Halloween Dangers to Pets

There are plenty of ways to find trouble on Halloween, particularly if left alone with a bag full of goodies. Chocolate is more harmful to pets than any other candy. In general the darker the chocolate, the more toxic it can be. Symptoms in dogs that have ingested chocolate can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or agitation, elevated heart rate, and in severe cases seizures.

The candy itself isn't the only threat--ingestion of foil and cellophane wrappers can in some cases cause life threatening bowel obstructions, which often require surgical intervention.

If you suspect your pet has ingested any of your Halloween treats, please contact your veterinarian.

Jane Bishop, VT
800-213-6680
www.petpoisonhelpline.com

Unscented clumping litter is recommended and preferred by most cats. Come in and we can chat about litter today!

#Cats have more than 100 vocal sounds, while #dogs have about 10. Who’s louder in your home?

PUPPY TRAINING

Spending time exercising and socializing your puppy is one of the most important gifts you can give to your new family member.

Lack of socialization is a common cause of behavior problems later in life. Some good ways to insure a well rounded, socialized puppy may include puppy classes, which not only teach obedience, but introduce your puppy to other dogs and people. Go for car rides, run the vacuum cleaner, give your puppy a bath, or go out to meet your neighbors.

Exercise and mental stimulation are also very important to raising a well rounded puppy. Playtime with your puppy is great bonding time, and gives your puppy a chance to learn how the world works. Many unwanted behaviors can be linked to inadequate exercise and mental stimulation. Provide safe, interactive toys for our puppy to play with.

Your puppy will also need to experience some alone time. Time to rest and time to play on their own. This will aid in the prevention of developing separation anxiety.

Another very important aspect for your new puppy will develop good bathroom habits. Remember that your puppy will learn best with a consistent routine and positive reinforcement. Using a crate can help ease the potty training process. It is important to know that a crate is NOT a place of punishment; it is meant to be a safe haven for your puppy.

Owning a new puppy is a big learning curve. Most importantly, have lots of fun together. Set your puppy up for success by making the process fun and positive.

Enjoy your time with your puppy and remember he is learning every day and you are his best teacher.

Jane Bishop, VT