Beware of Water Hazards

As spring wings it way toward summer and moisture continues in both rainfall and snowmelt, we need to think about the dangers of our dogs being in the water. Summer’s heat can make a running river appear refreshing for people and pets, however, racing waters pose dangers for both. Therefore, pet owners, BEWARE!

Contrary to what many people think, not all dogs swim or swim well. Dogs can and do drown. Even the best of swimmers, like Labrador retrievers, can lose their life in the water, especially a swollen, fast-moving river or stream.

In the early part of May, when rain fell and snow melted in the Rocky Mountains, a lab fell into a creek near Salt Lake City, was swept away by the cruising current and drowned. Owners need to keep their dogs on a leash when walking near racing water and keep their dogs close at hand so the animal is not as apt to fall or jump in.

Like many people, most dogs enjoy a great swim – it’s good exercise and helps alleviate some of the summer heat. However, swimming is also dangerous, especially when the water is high as it has been this year. As snows continue to melt in the higher elevations, our state’s rivers and streams may continue to pose hazards to both people and pets. So, when you’re camping, hiking or fishing this summer, keep your dog close at hand and restrained so that you control how close s/he gets to that fast-moving water.

Lakes and ponds have their own dangers, including blue-green algae, chemicals and motor oil. Take special note if you see blue-green algae or chemical pollutants in the body of water and hose off your dog or bathe it when you get home. Boating with your dog can also cause concern. Just as people should have personal floatation devices (PFDs) [and remember, children are required to wear them while in the boat!] PFDs for dogs are also available.

According to outdoor gear specialists REI, the U.S. Coast Guard does not certify canine PFDs, however, these doggie life jackets can be life savers. The device should fit snugly so your dog cannot twist, step or swim out of it, and it should have easy-release buckles and a handle so you can lift your four-legged friend out of the water if necessary.

Pools are another area of concern. If you have a pool and own a pet, again, be cautious. Make sure your dog doesn’t swallow chlorine and make sure your dog knows how to get out of the pool – be sure there are steps into and out of the pool and that your dog knows where those steps are located. Cover your pool when no one is around to keep your dog (and your children) safe.
For more information and tips on dogs and water safety, visit
http://www.everydayhealth.com/pet-health/dog-and-water-safety.aspx or talk with your veterinarian.

Keep Pets Safe During Halloween!

Although Halloween can be a fun holiday for children and adults, our pets find this time of year down-right spooky! Between extra excitement in the house, people wearing strange clothes, and all the ringing doorbells and loud noises, pets really stress out. Here are some tips to keep your pets safer and happier this Halloween:

· Keep pets safely inside, away from trick-or-treaters and other Halloween activities. This will ensure that pets won’t become frightened or feel threatened at the sight of noisy costumed children.
· Remember that frequently opened doors provide a perfect opportunity for escape, which can go unnoticed during all of the commotion, so keep your pet safe by keeping it in a secure room away from the opening and closing of the front and back doors.
· Be sure all pets are wearing collars with ID tags in case of accidental escape.
· Keep candy out of your pet’s reach. Candy can be harmful and chocolate is toxic to pets.
· Keep pets away from decorations. Flames in jack-o-lanterns and candles can quickly singe, burn or set fire to a pet’s fur. Pets can become tangled in hanging decorations like streamers and can choke on some decorations if they chew on them.
· Resist the urge to put your furry friend in costume. Most pets dislike the confinement of costumes and masks, and flowing capes can cause injuries if pets get caught on something.
· Don’t bring the family dog along for trick-or-treating. Dogs may become difficult to handle during the noise and confusion of the festivities, and a lost dog or a dog bite to someone will quickly end your Halloween fun.

These Halloween safety tips are provided by the Humane Society of the United States and others who care for you and your pets. Happy (and safe!) Halloween!