Summer Hazards That You May Not Have Thought Could Harm Your Dog
Summer brings warm weather, outdoor activities, and a host of hazards for your beloved four-legged family members. Keep dogs safe this season with awareness of some common objects, items, and foods that can pose danger to your best friend.
Household items
- Tennis balls should only be given to dogs when you are around to supervise. These can cause a choking risk, and could also be ingested, which will require emergency surgery to remove.
- Buttons can be a temptation for pets, who can subsequently choke on these small items.
- Loose change should never be left in your dog's reach, as this also presents the risk of choking.
- Dirty socks are something that your dog will find alluring, but that can cause them to choke. Do your dog a favor by picking up your dirty clothes and keeping them in a covered hamper.
- Dental floss is a choking hazard for pets. Don't ever toss it in an uncovered trash can.
Poisons
Keep the following, and all chemicals, cleaners, and household solutions away from your dog, ideally locked up in medicine cabinets, drawers, or kitchen cabinets:
- Tobacco products
- Rodent bait
- Mothballs
- Bleach
- Household cleansers
- Medications of any kind
- Pool chemicals
- Insect repellent
Plants
- Aloe
- Azalea
- English Ivy
- Lupine
- Gladiolas
- Honeysuckle
- Hyacinth
- Lilies
- Rhododendron
- Tulips
There are many common garden plants and flowers that can pose a hazard to your pet. Plant wisely, and consult with landscaping professionals when you have questions about pet-friendly plant options.
Summer treats.
- Grapes are a refreshing summertime snack that is poison for your dog. This includes dried grapes, or raisins.
- Avocados are a popular snack in the summer, and are toxic for dogs.
- Alcoholic beverages are dangerous for pets, so keep cocktails and beer bottles far from your pet's reach. Also, make sure beer and soda caps are picked up and thrown in the proper receptacle. These can be a choking hazard and could also cut your pet's paw-pads if they accidentally step on them.
- Leftovers in the trash are another potential danger for pets. There could be toxic foods or choking hazards lurking in your bin. Play it safe by keeping your trash completely covered.
Don't let seasonal hazards pose danger to your dog this summer. Be aware of some unlikely risks and don't hesitate to contact your vet if you believe your pet is in danger. Talk to a vet like Columbine Animal Hospital & Emergency Clinic.
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