Keeping Our Canine Companions Safe
Responsible Dog Ownership Extends Beyond Just Providing the Basics..
Sep 7, 2009
Pet care products and services are a multi-billion dollar industry in North America. Some people consider spending money on companion animals wasteful; a few years ago the Catholic Church hierarchy actually claimed it to be immoral. This negativity simply speaks to a lack of understanding about the importance of companion animals in our lives. The research about how animals enrich our lives speaks for itself and is indisputable. Over 65% of households have at least one companion animal and most consider that pet to be part of the family. In the fall, a new vehicle will hit the market in the USA - a pet friendly version of the Honda Element, which has a built in cushioned dog bed, a built in water bowl and fan, as well as a ramp for older dogs to get in the vehicle.
There have been many cases where dogs have perished in the baking interior of a vehicle. Not only can you suffer the loss of your beloved pet, or damage to your vehicle if authorities break in to save your pet, the law may also impose fines or jail for cruelty to animals. It really is more humane to leave your dog at home on a warm day - the CEO of the Richmond, Virginia SPCA recently found that out. The temperature in vehicles rise rapidly even on a moderately warm day and heat can cause dogs to succumb in a very short time - it really isn't worth the risk.
As part of the family, it makes sense that they deserve to be kept safe from harm and as smart as canines may be, the onus is on the human to provide the safety nets. There are many hazards for dogs: some are well documented, but other dangers may not be as obvious.
Car Safety
Of course, there are times when you want to take your dog with you, perhaps on a trip or a day out at the beach. Barring the purchase of the Honda Element, make sure you take a portable water supply when traveling with your dog in the car - there are plenty of 'to-go' water carriers for dogs. It may also help to place ice packs under the blanket your dog may be sitting on, especially if your vehicle is not air conditioned. Another stay cool tip for your doggie involves taking an old t-shirt and placing it in the freezer (even better to dampen it first before freezing), then putting it on your dog as you start your journey.
How many times have you seen a dog in the back of a pick up, untethered? How often have you seen a dog, cute as can be, with his paws on the door frame, window rolled down, hair blowing in the wind? How many times did you think 'I hope that car doesn't have an accident or that dog is a goner'? To prevent injury or even death to pets in car accidents, there are numerous seat belts and harnesses available on the market. To save money and for efficiency, some harnesses double as a walking harness as well as a car safety harness. A dog can also be transported in a crate if it is secured.
Water Safety
Some people believe that all dogs are natural swimmers but this is definitely not the case. Dogs should all be introduced to the water gradually to ensure they don't get into trouble. Some dogs do learn to like the water so do not simply throw your dog in expecting him to doggie paddle. This is one way to ensure good times at the beach never happen. Dogs that do enjoy the water, such as Portugese Water dogs or Nova Scotia Duck Tollers, may still get into difficulty in rough waters or by simply becoming fatigued after much ball fetching. To ensure your dog's safety in the water, there are lifejackets that fit various shapes and sizes.
If you have a swimming pool at home, regardless of whether your dog is a good swimmer or not, be wary of letting your dog have access without good safety measures in place. A dog may jump in after a toy and as dogs are unable to climb ladders, may become fatigued and drown. A good, solid pool cover in place will help in this situation.
Home Safety
Your dog is likely most comfortable in their own domain. But especially as you get to know your dog or if you have a newly adopted canine (from your local shelter, of course!), make sure that wires are out of their reach. A chewer may take to eating tv wires or computer wires and obviously is at risk for electrocution.The dangers of anti-freeze to dogs (and cats) are well documented. Make sure your vehicles do not leak this deadly fluid and ensure any supply is well stored with lid tightened. It takes only a very small amount of this liquid to affect an animal - as little as three ounces to harm a 40lb dog. Supposedly the producers of anti-freeze will be adding a substance to make it less appealing to animals - currently the sweetness attracts them.
Finally, be familiar with the list of foods that can sicken or even be deadly to dogs. Among this list are grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, garlic, potatoes, too much dairy and some types of nuts. Although some people say 'I give my dog a piece of chocolate every day', this not OK for all dogs, and as in most cases, it is best to err on the side of caution.
Dogs are fun and make wonderful companions. They deserve the best that their humans can give them, because for sure, humans always get the best from them.
BNC 101
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