If you’re like most dog owners, your pet is your baby. You take good care of them and do everything you can to keep them out of harm’s way.
Unfortunately, the world can be a hazardous place. There are plenty of potential dangers out there that can harm your pet. Some you might have never even considered could be a threat.
That’s why we’re here to help you make sure you’re doing everything you can to protect your favorite canine. Here are 7 of the best tips for keeping your dog safe.
Image by LUM3N
1. Don’t Skip the Collar
Most areas require owners to put collars on their dogs. But, you shouldn’t comply just because it’s the law. A collar will help ensure your dog comes home if they happen to get out. Ensure your contact information on the tags is legible and current.
You should also attach your dog’s rabies tags to his collar. This will inform rescuers that your pet is up-to-date on their shots. Make sure it is secure but not too tight. You should be able to comfortably slide two fingers underneath the band.
2. Keep Pests Away
You want to keep pests out of your home for lots of reasons. But, protecting your pooch is one of the most important.
Pests can harm pets. A bite from a venomous spider, for instance, can be lethal (especially for smaller dogs). Roaches can get into your dog’s food and spread viral diseases. Ants can cause allergic reactions.
When you do control for pests, keep your dog’s health in mind. Use a pet-friendly pest control company, buy roach killer products that are safe to use around pets, etc. Measures like these will keep your home pest-free and protect your dog from harmful chemicals.
3. Stick to Dog Food
It’s true that some human foods are good for dogs. However, some can be harmful (and even deadly). You should never feed your dog chocolate, grapes, avocados, etc.
As a general rule of thumb, stick to food specifically formulated for dogs. This will keep them safe and ensure they get all the nutrients they need.
You can never go wrong with healthy, delicious bully-stick treats for your pooch. Dogs simply love gnawing on these beefy and chewy treats. As long as you give your dog something yummy, your furry friend will be happy.
3. Secure Your Trash Can
Seeing as pets are naturally curious, they’ll get themselves into anything they can. This includes your trash.
It’s important to secure your trash can. Keep it in the garage or in a cupboard. Or, buy one with a secure lid. This will protect your pet from mold, glass, harmful food scraps, etc.
4. Store Household Chemicals
Pest products aren’t the only chemicals that can harm your dog. Antifreeze, dishwashing detergent, and other household chemicals can be dangerous if ingested.
So, be sure to properly store household chemicals. Place them in a cupboard or up on a high shelf. If your pet ever gets into household chemicals, seek medical help immediately.
6. Make Your Backyard a Safe Space
Your backyard is probably your furry friend’s favorite spot. Here, they can run around and explore.
As a pet owner, you need to make this sacred space safe for your furry friend. Some ways you can do this include:
- Keep your garden free of plants that are toxic to dogs (lilies, azaleas, etc.).
- Use pet-friendly pesticides
- Secure your fence to prevent your pet from running away (and to keep other animals out)
7. Keep Shots Up-to-Date
Owners have a responsibility to keep their pets up-to-date on their shots. This will protect them and the community at large. Bring your dog to the vet as much as recommended (although the average cat or dog visits the vet once a year after they turn one year old).
Bottom Line
We all want what is best for our dogs, and it’s important to always keep safety in mind, even if we think our dogs are capable of fighting against the world’s dangers.
With these tips, you can ensure they stay happy and healthy!
