Fall is my favorite time of the year. Air is crisp, apples on the trees, leaves are changing color, and the weather is in transition. We’re leaving behind the heat and humidity of summer, but the cold, frigid air of winter is not yet upon us.
But with that transition comes the potential for hurricanes, tornados, and other massive storms. I am writing this in the midst of Hurricane Irene by candlelight. While tornados sneak up on us, hurricanes do not. The key to weathering (Ha Ha) these storms is preparation. Education is key. The better prepared you are, the better your chances of survival becomes. One of the webinars I teach is called “Emergency and Disaster Planning With Your Pets.” Might be the best hour and half you spend.
These storms can be quite ferocious and may scare your pets. Keep them on a leash when walking them, so they do not run off when a crack of thunder booms. Loss of power is a concern for those who have refrigerated medicines such as insulin. In addition, if you lose power, your electronic fences will not work.
This is a good time to make sure your microchip company has updated information as well as a photograph of your pet. If your pet becomes lost, you want their picture, not the generic one being circulated. Make sure collar tags are readable.
Now is the time to prepare gardens and lawns for winter. When using fertilizers and pesticides restrict your pet’s access to the treated areas. The poison is absorbed through the pads or ingested when licking their paws. Most Fall bulbs are poisonous. Check with your local garden nursery or click on this link for a list of common poisonous plants: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/
As wildlife is preparing for winter, they become more active in their search for food. Be aware of the dangers they present to keep your pets from becoming a causality.
Halloween hazards include:
Chocolate contains theobromine. Pets cannot metabolize it, so it builds up in their bodies. The darker the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains. The smaller the pet, the less chocolate it can withstand.
Artificial sugars, such as might be found in Halloween candy causes a deadly drop in blood sugar. It doesn’t matter how small or large your pet is.
Candy wrappers can cause intestinal blockages.
Candles in pumpkins can get knocked over and start a fire.
Secure your pet when trick or treaters come to your door. Don’t give your pets an opportunity to escape out the front door.
Thanksgiving hazards include:
Turkey bones can pose a choking hazard or splinter causing intestinal damage.
Turkey trimmings have a high fat content and can cause pancreatitis.
Alcohol can fatally accelerate your pets’ heartbeat.
Stuffing may contain both onions and/or raisins.
Too many guests, especially small children; can overexcite or annoy your pets. Make sure they have a place to get away from the ruckus. Keep in mind, that for some pets one guest is too many.
Inform your guests not to feed your pets without your permission.
As always, take a pet first aid class. It can be the difference between life and death and is the best gift you can give them.