Tag Archives: dog hazards

Adoptions, Dog Care, General Care

Helping A Shelter Dog Settle In

October was Adopt A Shelter Dog Month! If you’re planning on adopting a shelter dog, you definitely have our blessing. We love seeing dogs get second chances! Going to a new home is a big deal to Fido, so you’ll want to take some steps to make the transition easy on him. Here, a Georgetown, IN vet offers some advice on helping your dog settle in.

Bringing Fido Home

Your new pup may sleep a lot at first. Being in a shelter is both scary and stressful for Man’s Best Friend! Fido may also be missing his former owner, or need to recuperate from past trauma. If possible, get him set up in a quiet back room, and just let him relax and adjust.

Petproofing

It may take time for you to get to know your canine buddy. Fido may have habits you don’t know about. For instance, he may have a penchant for chewing shoes, or have a digging habit. Make sure your home and yard are dog-safe. This entails removing or securing anything your pooch shouldn’t eat, such as toxic plants, wires and cords, plastic bags and ties, chemicals, medication, and anything small or sharp. Keep personal items, like shoes and books, out of paws’ reach. If you have a yard, make sure that your fencing is secure, so your pet can’t escape. We also recommend getting a self-latching gate.

A Safe Haven

You’ll need to do some shopping. A plush, super comfy bed is a definite must. Fido will also need toys, treats, food, dishes, a crate or carrier, grooming supplies, and waste baggies.

Routine

Dogs thrive on routine. Put Fido on a set schedule for meals, walks, and playtime. The sooner you get your furry friend started out on his new schedule, the better!

Walks

When walking your canine companion, use a good, sturdy leash, and keep a firm grip on it. Fido may bolt if something scares him, so you want to be prepared.

Tail Wags

Every dog is different. Some pups literally bounce with happiness when they realize they’ve been adopted. Others are more timid, and need time to settle in. Focus on giving your pooch great TLC and making him feel loved. Dogs can really blossom with love!

Please contact us, your Georgetown, IN vet clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Autumn Dangers for Dogs

Fall is officially here! All of the seasons have specific hazards for pet parents to be aware of, and autumn is no different. Here, a Georgetown, IN vet discusses autumn dangers for dogs.

Lawn/Garden Chemicals

At this time of year, many people treat their lawns and gardens with pesticides, insecticides, and fertilizers. Your pooch could get sick just by licking his paws after walking through an area that was recently treated. Water your property after applying chemicals, so they soak down into the earth. You may also want to wipe your pup’s paws and belly off before you bring him indoors.

Wild Animals

As the weather cools, many wild animals will be searching for spots to hibernate. This can make them rather cranky, and more aggressive than usual. When walking Fido, don’t let him sniff around anything that could be a potential den. Snakes are a particular concern here: they sometimes hide in piles of leaves.

Antifreeze

Antifreeze is extremely dangerous to Man’s Best Friend. It’s highly toxic, and is particularly concerning because many pets like the way it tastes. Clean up any spills right away. If you see stains or damp spots, put cat litter or sand over them.

Plants

Many plants that bloom in autumn are poisonous to dogs. Mushrooms are a common one. Chrysanthemums are also dangerous to pets. And, while Fido may love playing in piles of dead leaves, be careful here: they can harbor mold or bacteria.

Decorations

Autumn decorations have a special whimsical feel, but you do need to be careful with what you put out. Fido is definitely not above trying to eat a cardboard pumpkin! He could also get tangled up in lights or cords. Hang things above your pet’s height, and be sure to secure wires and cords.

Candy

Candy is also dangerous to your furry best friend! Many sweets, such as chocolate, raisins, nuts, and anything containing xylitol, are toxic to Fido. Hard candies are also unsafe, as they present serious choking risks.

Weather

Fido may have a fur coat, but he isn’t immune to cold weather. Limit your pet’s outdoor time on cold days, and make sure he has a warm bed. If your pooch has thin fur, get him some doggy clothes for frigid days.

Please call us, you Georgetown, IN vet clinic, for all your dog’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Winter Care for Dogs

Winter is approaching fast! As the weather changes, you may need to make a few adjustments to your dog’s care routine, in order to keep Fido happy and healthy. Winter can be very dangerous for our canine pals! Here, a Georgetown, IN vet discusses winter care for dogs.

Food

Some of our furry friends need to eat a little more in cold weather. If your canine companion is a working dog, puppy, nursing mama, or just spends a lot of time outdoors, he may need bigger portion sizes in winter. Follow your vet’s nutritional recommendations.

Clothing

Fido might need doggy clothes to help him stay warm on frigid days, especially if he has thin fur. When shopping for your pooch, always take his measurements with you. (Tip: text them to yourself, so you always have them.) Avoid anything itchy, tight, or constricting. Also, stay away from items with zippers and/or small pieces that your furry pal may try to eat, such as buttons.

Activity

While you may not relish the thought of going to the doggy park on a freezing-cold day, it is important to keep Fido active. You can play Fetch or Tug-o-War with your pet inside, though you’ll of course want to choose areas without a lot of breakable objects. Stair runs will also give your furry buddy a great workout. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Paw Care

Snow, salt, sand, ice, and chemical de-icing products can all hurt your dog’s sensitive paw pads. If your canine buddy doesn’t like wearing booties, use paw balm or wax to protect his feet. Also, remember to choose pet-friendly de-icing products. Last but not least, keep Fido’s claws trimmed: this will make it easier for him to gain traction on slippery surfaces.

Walking

Since the sun sets so early in winter, you’ll probably be walking your four-legged friend after dark quite a bit. Get Fido a reflective leash and collar, and wear a reflective jacket yourself. Wear shoes with good traction, and bring a phone and flashlight with you. Keep an eye on the ground, as the snow can hide dangerous objects, like broken glass. Also, don’t bring your pooch near frozen bodies of water, riverbanks, or other dangerous areas.

Please do not hesitate to contact us, your Georgetown, IN pet hospital, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are dedicated to providing excellent care!