DOG BITE PREVENTION
FIREWORKS AND THUNDERSTORMS PHOBIAS
FUN CORNER
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDS
TRAVELING WITH PETS.
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Dog bite prevention |
National Dog Bite prevention week is May 18th - 24th
What you should know about dog bite prevention
May 2006
Avma.org
Any dog can bite
Even the cuddliest, fuzziest, sweetest pup can bite if provoked. Most
people are bitten by their own dog or one they know. Unwisely, some owners
actually promote aggression in their dogs or allow aggression to go
unchecked.
From nips to bites to actual attacks, dog bites are a serious problem. Dog
bite victims requiring medical attention in the United States number
approximately 800,000 annually. Countless more bites go untreated. On
average, about a dozen people die each year from dog bites. Fortunately,
there are steps we can take to address this problem.
Who's being bitten?
Statistically, the number of recorded dog bites are significantly higher
in children than adults. The elderly and home service providers such as
mail carriers and meter readers are also high on the list of frequent dog
bite victims. CAUTION: Never leave a baby or child alone with a dog.
What's a dog owner to do?
Carefully consider your pet selection. Puppies should not be obtained on
impulse. Before and after selection, your veterinarian is the best source
for information about behavior and suitability.
Make sure your pet is socialized as a young puppy so it feels at ease
around people and other animals. Gradually expose your puppy to a variety
of situations under controlled circumstances; continue that exposure on a
regular basis as your dog gets older. Don't put your dog in a position
where it feels threatened or teased.
Wait until your child is older. Because so many dog bites happen to
younger children, it is suggested that parents wait until children are
older than 4 years of age before getting a dog.
Train your dog. The basic commands "sit," "stay," "no," and "come" can be
incorporated into fun activities which build a bond of obedience and trust
between pets and people. Avoid highly excitable games like wrestling or
tug-of-war. Use a leash in public to control your dog.
Keep your dog healthy. Have your dog vaccinated against rabies and
preventable infectious diseases. Parasite control and other health care is
important because how your dog feels directly affects how it behaves.
Neuter your pet. It's a fact: neutered dogs are three times less likely to
bite.
Be a responsible pet owner. License your dog with the community as
required. Obey leash laws. Dogs are social animals; spending time with
your pet is important. Dogs that are frequently left alone have a greater
chance of developing behavior problems.
Be alert. Know your dog. Be alert to signs of illness. Also watch for
signs your dog is uncomfortable or feeling aggressive.
How can my family and I avoid being bitten?
Be cautious around strange dogs and treat your own pet with respect.
Because children are the most frequent victims of dog bites, parents and
caregivers should:
NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a dog.
Be on the look out for potentially dangerous situations.
Start teaching young children – including toddlers – to be careful around
pets.
Children must be taught NOT to approach strange dogs. Teach children to
ask permission from a dog's owner before petting the dog.
Other tips that may prevent or stop a dog attack
Don't run past a dog: Dogs naturally love to chase and catch things. Don't
give them a reason to be come excited or aggressive.
Never disturb a dog that's caring for puppies, sleeping or eating.
If a dog approaches to sniff you, stay still.
In most cases, the dog will go away when it determines you are not a
threat.
If you are threatened by a dog, remain calm.
Don't scream. If you say anything, speak calmly and firmly. Avoid eye
contact. Try to stay still until the dog leaves, or back away slowly until
the dog is out of sight. Don't turn and run.
If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands
over your head and neck. Protect your face.
What should I do if my dog bites someone?
Even if the bite can be explained (perhaps someone stepped on the dog's
tail), it's important to take responsibility for your dog's actions by
taking these steps:
Restrain the dog immediately. Separate it from the scene of the attack.
Confine it.
Check on the victim's condition. Wash wounds with soap and water.
Professional medical advice should be sought to evaluate the risk of
rabies or other infections. Call 911 if paramedic response is required.
Provide important information including your name, address and information
about your dog's most recent rabies vaccination. If your dog does not have
a current rabies vaccination, it may be necessary to quarantine it or even
euthanize it for rabies testing. The person bitten may need to undergo
rabies treatment.
Comply with local ordinances regarding the reporting of dog bites.
Consult your veterinarian for advice about dog behavior that will help
prevent similar problems in the future.
IF YOU are bitten
If your own dog bit you, confine it immediately and call your veterinarian
to check your dog's vaccination records.
If someone else's dog bit you, first seek medical treatment for the wound.
Next, contact authorities and tell them everything you can about the dog:
the owner's name, if you know it; the color and size of the dog; where you
encountered the dog; and, if and where you've seen it before. These details
may help animal-control officers locate the dog. In addition, consider
asking your physician if post-exposure rabies treatment may be necessary.
Dogs are wonderful companions. By acting responsibly, owners not only
reduce the number of dog bites, but also enhance the relationship they
have with their dog.
To learn more about the joys and responsibilities of pet ownership,
contact your veterinarian or local veterinary association.
To learn more about dog bite prevention, visit:
www.aap.org
www.cdc.gov/injury
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FIREWORKS AND THUNDERSTORMS PHOBIAS |
With our recent stormy weather and fast approaching fourth of July, many
owners have discovered that their dogs are scared of storms and loud
noises. Here are some things to keep in mind for your storm/noise phobic
dog.
-Don’t punish your dog when he is scared, it will only confirm to him that
there is something to be afraid of and will make the behavior worsen.
-Don’t try to reassure or coddle your dog, he will regard this as a reward
for the behavior.
-Although it is difficult, try to ignore any fearful behavior.
-Try to find a quiet and confined area for your dog to “hide” in, such as
a crate in a bathroom or closet with no windows.
-Try to start a desensitization program with either an audio or video
recording of loud noises/storms.
-There are some anti-anxiety drugs that our veterinarians may prescribe-
contact our office for more information.
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FUN CORNER |
Pet Peeves from the Dog
10. Blaming your farts on me…not funny…not funny at all.
9. Yelling at me for barking…I AM A DOG!!
8. How you naively believe that the stupid cat isn’t all over everything
while you are gone. Have you noticed that your toothbrush tastes a little
like cat spit?!
7. Taking me for a walk, then not letting me check stuff out. Exactly
whose walk is this anyway?
6. Any trick that involves balancing anything on my nose…stop it.
5. Yelling at me for peeing and rubbing my bum on your carpet. Why’d you
buy carpet?
4. Dog sweaters. Hello…have you notice the fur?
3. Any haircut that involves bows or ribbons. Now you know why we chew up
your stuff when you are not at home.
2.When you pick up poop in the yard. Do you realize how far behind
schedule that puts me?
And the #1 pet peeve from the dog’s perspective…
The slight of hand, fake-fetch-throw. You fooled a dog!
What a proud moment for the top of the food chain.
Written by Marcia Hotvedt vspn.com 5/23/03
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Household hazards |
What you should know about household hazards to pets
December 2005
Taken from Avma.org
Every home contains a variety of everyday items and substances that can be
dangerous or even fatal if ingested by dogs and cats. You can protect your
pet's health by becoming aware of the most common health hazards found in
many pet-owning households.
HAZARDS IN THE KITCHEN
Foods
Many foods that are perfectly safe for humans could be harmful or
potentially deadly to dogs and cats. To be safe, keep the following food
items out of your pet's menu:
coffee grounds grapes/raisins
chocolate onions
yeast dough tea
macadamia nuts alcohol
fatty foods salt
avocado garlic
chewing gum, candy and breath fresheners containing xylitol
Always keep garbage out of a pet's reach, as rotting food contains molds
or bacteria that could produce food poisoning.
Cleaning Products
Many household cleaners can be used safely around cats and dogs. However,
the key to safe use lies in reading and following product directions for
proper use and storage.
For instance, if the label states "keep pets and children away from area
until dry," follow those directions to prevent possible health risks.
Products containing bleach can safely disinfect many household surfaces
when used properly, but can cause stomach upset, drooling, vomiting or
diarrhea, severe burns if swallowed and respiratory tract irritation can
occur if inhaled in a high enough concentration. In addition, skin contact
with concentrated solutions may produce serious chemical burns. Some
detergents can produce a similar reaction, and cats can be particularly
sensitive to certain ingredients such as phenols.
As a general rule, store all cleaning products in a secure cabinet out of
the reach of pets and keep them in their original packaging, or in a
clearly labeled and tightly sealed container.
Insecticides/Rodenticides
As with household cleaners, read and follow label instructions before
using any type of pesticide in your pet's environment. For example, flea
and tick products labeled "for use on dogs only" should not be applied to
cats or other species, as serious or even life-threatening problems could
result. Always consult with your veterinarian about the safe use of these
products for your pet.
If a pet ingests rat or mouse poison, potentially serious or even
life-threatening illness can result; therefore, when using any
rodenticide, it is important to place the poison in areas completely
inaccessible to pets.
HAZARDS IN THE BATHROOM
Medications
Medications that treat human medical conditions can make pets very sick.
Never give your pet any medication unless directed by your veterinarian.
As a rule, the following medicines should be tightly closed and stored in
a secure cabinet above the counter and away from pets:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen or
naproxen
acetaminophen diet pills antihistamines
cold medicines vitamins antidepressants
prescription drugs
Soaps and other Sundries
Bath and hand soaps, toothpaste and sun blocks should also be kept away
from your pets. They can cause stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea. Keep
toilet lids closed to prevent your pets from consuming treated toilet bowl
water that could irritate their digestive tract.
HAZARDS IN THE BEDROOM AND LIVING ROOM
While they may smell good, many liquid potpourri products contain
ingredients that can cause oral ulcerations and other problems, so keep
them out of the reach of your pets.
Just one mothball has the potential to sicken a dog or cat and mothballs
that contain naphthalene can cause serious illness, including digestive
tract irritation, liver, kidney and blood cell damage, swelling of the
brain tissues, seizures, coma, respiratory tract damage (if inhaled) and
even death (if ingested). Tobacco products, pennies (those minted after
1982 contain zinc) and alkaline batteries (like those in your remote
controls) can also be hazardous when ingested.
HAZARDS IN THE GARAGE AND YARD
Antifreeze, Herbicides and Insecticides
Ethylene glycol-containing antifreeze and coolants, even in small
quantities, can be fatal to both dogs and cats. While antifreeze products
containing propylene glycol are less toxic than those containing ethylene
glycol, they can still be dangerous. In addition to antifreeze, other
substances routinely stored in the garage including insecticides,
plant/lawn fertilizers, weed killers, ice-melting products and gasoline
also pose a threat to your pet's health if ingested.
When chemical treatments are applied to grassy areas, be sure and keep
your pet off the lawn for the manufacturer's recommended time. If pets are
exposed to wet chemicals or granules that adhere to their paws, they may
lick it off later; stomach upset or more serious problems could result.
Paints and Solvents
Paint thinners, mineral spirits, and other solvents are dangerous and can
cause severe irritation or chemical burns if swallowed or if they come in
contact with your pet's skin. While most latex house paints typically
produce a minor stomach upset, some types of artist's or other specialty
paints may contain heavy metals or volatile substances that could become
harmful if inhaled or ingested.
Plants – Inside or Around the House
There are many household and yard plants that can sicken your pet. Some of
the most commonly grown greenery that should be kept away from pets
include:
• Lily of the Valley, oleander, azalea, yew, foxglove, rhododendron and
kalanchoe may cause heart problems if ingested.
• Rhubarb leaves and shamrock contain substances that can produce kidney
failure. Certain types of lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis species) are
highly toxic to cats, resulting in kidney failure — even if only small
amounts are ingested.
• Sago palms (Cycad species) can cause liver damage, especially if the nut
portion of the plant is consumed. Additionally, fungi such as certain
varieties of mushrooms can cause liver damage or other illnesses.
A few other potentially harmful plants include philodendron, corn plant,
castor bean, mother-in-law's tongue, Hibiscus and hydrangea.
For a complete listing of common toxic and non-toxic plants, visit
www.apcc.aspca.org.
OTHER HOUSEHOLD HAZARDS
Small items that fall on the floor can be easily swallowed by a curious
cat or dog. Such items include coins, buttons, small children's toys,
medicine bottles, jewelry, nails, and screws. The result may be damage to
your pet's digestive tract and the need for surgical removal of the
object.
While electrical cords are especially tempting to puppies who like to chew
on almost anything, even an adult dog or cat could find them of interest;
burns or electrocution could result from chewing on live cords. Prevent
this by using cord covers and blocking access to wires.
HOLIDAY HAZARDS
Don't forget that holidays and visitors can pose a special challenge to
your pets. Discourage well-meaning guests from spoiling pets with extra
treats and scraps from the dinner table. Fatty, rich or spicy foods can
cause vomiting and diarrhea and lead to inflammation of the pancreas.
Poultry or other soft bones can splinter and damage your pet's mouth or
esophagus.
While trick or treating is fun for children, it can be hazardous to pets.
Halloween treats such as chocolate or candy sweetened with xylitol can
make a harmful snack. Certain Halloween and Christmas decorations
(especially tinsel, ribbons and ornaments) also pose a hazard to pets, so
make sure nothing is left on the floor or on tables within reach.
String-like items can damage your pet's intestine and could prove fatal if
not surgically removed. While poinsettia is not deadly as popular legend
would have it, it could still cause an upset stomach if consumed. Holly
and mistletoe are especially dangerous plants. Christmas tree water
treated with preservatives (including fertilizers) can also cause an upset
stomach. Water that is allowed to stagnate in tree stands contains bacteria
that, if ingested, could lead to nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
A Special Note of Caution to Bird Owners
Just like dogs and cats, most hazards listed here apply to your pet bird,
particularly if it is allowed to roam freely outside of its cage. In
addition, birds have unique respiratory tracts that are especially
vulnerable to inhaled particles and fumes from aerosol products, tobacco
products, certain glues, paints, air fresheners and any other aerosolized
matter. Birds should never be allowed in areas where such products are
being used. As a rule, birds should never be kept in kitchens because
cooking fumes, smoke and odors can present a hazard.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR PET IS POISONED
Don't wait! Time is critical for successfully treating accidental
poisoning. Pick up the phone and call your veterinarian or the ASPCA
Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-426-4435; a consultation fee may
apply). Be prepared to state your pet's breed, age, weight and any
symptoms. Keep the product container or plant sample with you to assist in
identification so the appropriate treatment recommendations can be made.
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Traveling with pets. |
It is now the holiday season and many people will be traveling with there
pets.
Here are a few helpful hints found at avma.org.
What you should know about traveling with your pet
Revised May 2007
Planning and Preparation
Planning and preparation are necessary when traveling with family pets.
Consider whether your pet is comfortable when traveling. Some animals,
like some people, function better in familiar surroundings. A car-sick
animal can make a trip miserable for everyone. Some dogs and cats cannot
withstand the rigors of travel due to illness, injury, or temperament. If
this is the case, discuss options such as using a reliable pet-sitter or a
clean, well-managed boarding facility with your veterinarian.
If you will be staying with friends along the way, be considerate. Find
out in advance if the pet is welcome. The same goes for hotels, motels,
parks, and campgrounds. Always check whether pets are allowed or kennel
facilities are available. If the pet must be left alone in a hotel room,
place a "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door and inform the maid and the
front desk. Consider bringing along a portable kennel for use in hotel
rooms or the homes of friends or relatives who are not comfortable having
your pet loose when no one is home.
A few general tips apply whether you travel by car or plane. Be sure your
pet is properly identified with a current tag and/or a microchip. Grooming
(bathing, combing, trimming nails) before a trip, plus having its favorite
food, toy(s), and dishes available will make your pet more comfortable.
Have proof of rabies vaccination and a current health certificate with you
when crossing state or international borders. Keep a photo of your pet with
you to help with identification in case your pet is lost.
Before undertaking any trip, consult your veterinarian to be sure that all
required vaccinations are up-to-date and to receive a health certificate
within ten days of travel.
Travel by Air
Air travel is of most concern to pet owners. The airlines sometimes update
their regulations on pet travel including restrictions on breeds and size,
and may charge for checked kennels. Most airlines require a health
certificate issued within 10 days prior to travel. Check with the airline
well in advance for their current regulations. Many of the major airlines
allow cats and small dogs to travel in specially designed carry-on luggage
that will fit under the seat.
Federal regulations require that pets be at least 8 weeks old and weaned
at least 5 days before flying. Always try to book a nonstop flight and
avoid plane changes and busy holidays whenever possible. During warm
weather periods, choose early morning or late evening flights. In colder
months, choose midday flights. Regulations associated with the Federal
Animal Welfare Act prohibit airlines from accepting dogs and cats for
shipment if the airline cannot prevent exposure of the animal to
temperatures less than 45 degrees F (7.2 C) or more than 85 degrees F
(29.5 C) for more than 45 minutes when the animal is transferred between
the terminal and the plane, or for more than 4 hours when the animal is in
a holding facility. However, the prohibition against exposure to
temperatures below 45 degrees F is waived if a veterinarian provides an
acclimation certificate stating that the dog or cat can be exposed to
lower temperatures. Your veterinarian cannot give a certificate allowing
exposures to temperatures above 85 degrees F for more than 45 minutes.
Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs may have more difficulty with air
travel.
Reconfirm your flight arrangements the day before you leave to ensure
there have been no unexpected flight changes. Arrive at the airport early,
exercise your pet, personally place it in its crate, and pick up the animal
promptly upon arrival at your destination. When boarding the plane, let the
flight attendant know that your pet is in the cargo hold. If your pet will
be traveling with you in the cabin, arrange to check in as late as
possible to reduce the amount of time your pet will have to spend in the
busy terminal.
Defective kennels are the most common cause of escaped or injured animals
during air travel. Approved transport crates, available from most airlines
or pet shops, must:
• Be large enough to allow the animal to stand (without touching the top
of the cage), sit erect, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Latch securely.
• Be strong and free of interior protrusions, with handle or grips.
• Have a solid, leak-proof bottom that is covered with plenty of absorbent
material.
• Be appropriately and clearly labeled. Include your name, home address,
home phone number, and destination contact information, as well as a
designation of "Live Animals," with arrows indicating the crate's upright
position. In addition, carry your pet's photo and health information with
you on the plane for easy identification in the event the cage label is
lost.
• Be adequately ventilated so that airflow is not impeded.
Before leaving on your trip, take time to accustom your pet to the crate
in which it will be traveling.
Ask your veterinarian for specific feeding instructions. For your pet's
comfort, air travel on an almost empty stomach is usually recommended. The
age and size of your pet, time and distance of the flight, and your pet's
regular dietary routine will be considered when feeding recommendations
are made. It is recommended that you not give tranquilizers to your pet
when traveling by air because they can increase the risk of heart or
respiratory problems.
Travel by Car
If your pet is not accustomed to car travel, take it for a few short rides
before your trip so it will feel confident that a car outing does not
necessarily mean a trip to the veterinarian or an unpleasant destination.
Cats should always be confined to a cage or in a cat carrier to allow them
to feel secure and prevent them from crawling under your feet while you are
driving.
A dog that must ride in a truck bed should be confined in a protective
kennel that is fastened to the truck bed. Dogs riding in a car should not
ride in the passenger seat if it is equipped with an airbag, and should
not be allowed to sit on the driver's lap. Harnesses, tethers, and other
accessories to secure pets during car travel are available at most pet
stores. Accustom your dog to a seatbelt harness by attaching a leash and
taking your dog for short walks while wearing it. Offer your dog a treat
and praise at the end of the walk to associate a positive experience with
wearing the harness. Pets should not be allowed to ride with their heads
outside car windows. Particles of dirt or other debris can enter the eyes,
ears, and nose, causing injury or infection.
Stick to your regular feeding routine and give the main meal at the end of
the day or when you reach your destination. Feeding dry food will be more
convenient, assuming your pet readily consumes it. Dispose of unused
canned food unless it can be refrigerated. Take along a plastic jug of
cold water in case other reliable water sources are not available. Give
small portions of food and water and plan to stop every two hours for
exercise. Remember to include a leash with your pet's traveling supplies.
If your dog is has a problem with carsickness, your veterinarian can
prescribe medication that will help the dog feel comfortable during a long
car trip. Pets should not be left unattended in cars.
Travel by Bus or Train
Most states prohibit animals from riding on buses and similar regulations
restrict travel on trains. Exceptions are made for guide and service dogs
accompanying blind and disabled persons. Consult your local carriers in
advance for information.
Camping With Pets
Traveling to country settings with your pet presents its own challenges.
Skunks, raccoons, porcupines, snakes, and other wildlife can bite or
otherwise injure your pet. Keep your pet within sight and on a leash. Be
considerate of other campers. Be sure to ask your veterinarian about flea,
tick, and heartworm prevention before you leave.
Additional Pet Travel and Health Tips
• When traveling by car, pack a simple pet first-aid kit that includes
assorted bandages, antiseptic cream, an antidiarrheal medication that is
safe for pets (ask your veterinarian to suggest a product), gauze squares,
and the phone numbers of your veterinarian, a national poison control
hotline, and a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital
• In addition to a standard identification tag (which should be labeled
with your name, home address, and phone number), your pet's collar should
include a travel tag with information on where you are staying while away
from home. Should your pet become lost, this will allow you to be
contacted locally.
• Perform a daily "health check" on your pet when away from home. In
unfamiliar surroundings, your pet's appetite, energy, and disposition may
change. Watch for unusual discharges from the nose and eyes, excessive
scratching or biting of any body part, abnormal elimination, or excessive
water consumption. Visit a local veterinarian if you are concerned about
any physical or behavioral changes.
For more Information and helpful tips on traveling with your pet
American Veterinary Medical Association
www.avma.org
United States Department of Transportation Aviation Consumer Protection
Division
http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/publications/animals.htm
United States Department of Agriculture Animal Care Pet Travel Page
www.aphis.usda.gov/ac/pettravel.html
International Air Transport Association Live Animals Transportation by
Air
http://www.iata.org/whatwedo/cargo/live_animals/index.html
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