Pet Safety TipsIt's crucial to ensure that your pets are kept away from poisonous plants and food items that can cause illness. The NC State College of Veterinary Medicine offers some safety tips.Fireworks are scary for pets, which is why they should be kept in the safest place, like a crate, or in a secure area during fireworks shows. They should wear a collar that has identification tags, and be microchipped.Check the GarageThe garage could be a safe haven for potential dangers for pets from plants that can be poisonous for animals to chemicals and fertilizers. Make sure that all chemicals and cleaning products are kept in cabinets that are locked with a latch your pet can't reach. Make sure that gas tanks, propane canisters and other flammable objects are not kept in the garage, or within easy reach of curious cats or dogs.Keep a photo of yourself and your pet inside your evacuation kit. This will allow others to identify you in the event that you are separated. Include your pet's bedding or toys to help alleviate stress during evacuation.Find local animal shelters, veterinary clinics and other accommodations for pets along evacuation routes. Keep a leash or harness designed for your pet at hand. These are essential tools to keep them under control. Also, make sure that your pet is microchipped, or has a collar that has current contact information.Keep in mind that overheating is a possibility in humans and pets alike in hot temperatures. Drowsy panting, heavy panting and a heightened heart rate are all indications of an overheated. Overheating is more likely to occur in pets with respiratory issues or are brachycephalic.Also, make sure that garbage cans or recycle bins are covered to prevent rodents from getting into them. Place trash in containers that aren't accessible by pets. Also, remove any items that could be poisonous and choke you, like buttons or strings. Close the lids of toilets for cats. The smell of a full tank could entice them to drink the contents, which can be fatal!Create a Plan for a Disaster PlanIt is important to be prepared for your pet if you live in a region that is prone to natural disasters. Make a disaster plan and create an emergency kit.This plan can aid you and your pet to survive an evacuation, particularly for emergencies that happen without warning. You can also make your own list of your friends, neighbors, or family who will be willing to help you and your pet in the case of an emergency.It is also important to include the most recent photograph and a description of your pet should they are lost or separated from you during a disaster. It is also important to keep your pet on leash at all times or in a pet carrier and keep them close by during emergencies. This will ensure that your pet won't wander off or hurt.Even the most docile pets can be aggressive or defensive in the event of an event. In the event of a fire, for instance, your pet could become disoriented because scent markers that normally indicate their home have been destroyed away. Keep your pets inside and under control at all times in the event of a disaster. Also, monitor air quality as smoke can be harmful to both pets and humans.Include basic items such as food, water and medicine in a waterproof, airtight container. It is also recommended to include a leash, harness and carrier that fits the pet, as well as blanket, a pet bed or favorite toy that might provide comfort in a stressful situation. If your pet consumes canned foods, you should include an opener for cans that is manual as well. Make sure you check your pet's food supply often to ensure that all items are in good condition and are usable.Keep your pets in a safe placeSome pet owners believe it is best to keep their pets in a secure area during holidays. Noises and fireworks that are loud can be frightening for pets, especially smaller breeds or those that are already anxious. They may be affected by the heat of outdoor events and celebrations.Keeping your dog and cat in the house during these events can also protect them from being exposed to possible dangers, like exploding fireworks or being struck by a lighted jack-o-lantern. Pets and dogs that are out in the open during these times even in backyards with fenced-in areas or on leashes, could be at risk of being attacked by other dogs or from encountering local wildlife.Fireworks, particularly those that are lit, are very dangerous for pets, and can result in severe burns or trauma. The sound and light can also cause a pet to feel confused and lost, or scared. If your dog is fearful of fireworks, get him exercise prior to the celebrations begin and try to keep him in the house with you or a trusted friend during the time they are taking place.If your pet chews ensure that you move things that are easily swallowed away from your reach before you leave the house for a day or two like underwear, small bones, string toys, or even items that are thrown in the garbage. These items can be harmful if they are ingested and cause stomach upset. Certain seasonal plants are poisonous to dogs and cats including mistletoe, holly and poinsettias.Left alone in hot weather, a few dogs and cats, especially those with flat faces, such as pugs and Persians can suffer heat stroke. Keep them inside during the hottest time of the day. Provide them with plenty of shade and cool water, as well as food. Avoid leaving them in vehicles that are parked, as this could lead to heat stroke.Beware of walking on Frozen WaterIn winter frozen lakes, ponds and canals are tempting to children and pets alike. These bodies of water can be dangerous. It is not recommended to walk on the ice or accompany their pets onto the ice in any way. It is difficult to judge the strength of ice from visual inspection, and temperature fluctuations could alter its consistency. Ice formed by rivers is usually affected by currents, which can make it weaker and even break. Call 911 immediately if someone is injured by the ice. Do not attempt to save the person on your own. This could make things worse. types of pets must also be on a leash near bodies of water, and should not be encouraged to swim in ponds or lakes. Dogs may ingest contaminated water and become infected with Leptospirosis, a potentially fatal bacterial disease that can affect the kidneys and other organs. responsible pet care may also be infected by the disease if they come in contact with urine of infected dogs and other animals.Some plants and trees are poisonous to pets and should be avoided. Japanese yews in particular contain toxins that can cause blood pressure and heart rate issues in cats and dogs when they are eaten. true care for pets of daffodils, tulips and other blooms are toxic and can cause stomach upsets and obstruction problems in pets if dug up and consumed.Animals' behaviour may change drastically in the aftermath of a disaster, flash flood, or a storm. If they are fearful or uneasy they can be aggressive. It is recommended to keep pets in carriers or on leashes when they are out of the house, and to teach them basic safety rules for interactions with other people, including guests, children and strangers.Make Sure Your Pet Has a LeashA leash is a string or rope that is attached to the collar of a dog. It helps the owner control it during walks. Leashes are vital to ensure your pet's safety and protection.Many cities have laws that require dogs to be secured in public spaces and parks. This is not only for your own safety but for the safety of animals and other people as well. Letting dogs run free could result in them being hit by cars, or creating accidents. They may also be injured by other dogs and wildlife.If a dog isn't on a leash, they can sniff out things that could be harmful to them, or even dangerous. For example urine of other dogs, and poisonous plants. They can also get dirty water or puddles that contain pesticides.In types of pets to being a legal requirement, leashes help you train your dog and make them more secure in all situations. Leashes prevent your dog from chasing other dogs and people in traffic, running into other areas that aren't safe, eating or smelling things they shouldn't be, digging up the lawn or wandering off during walks.Leashes are also important since they allow you to be seen when walking your dog. Certain people are scared of dogs and are more likely to be anxious or angry when surrounded by one. Leashes are also useful for people with allergies or sensitivity to certain scents.