Now
that spring time is approaching there are a few household dangers that pet
owners need to be aware of.
With
Easter fast approaching here are a few tips to keep your furry loved ones safe
Tip #1: Steer Clear of Lilies
·
Although
beautiful and alluring, these showy and often
fragrant flowers can be deadly. These
plants can prove fatal if any of the part of the plant is ingested by your
cat. Even the pollen or the water from
the vase can be harmful
·
Within
a few hours after ingestion, cats may exhibit vomiting, depression, lethargy
and lack of appetite
·
After
12-24 hours, the kidneys will begin to fail
·
One
to five days after ingestion, severe dehydration and complete kidney failure will ensue and
ultimately death
·
With
prompt intervention, the prognosis or outcome is quite good but will generally
involve hospitalization, intravenous fluid therapy and monitoring of the kidney
values
One
common plant mistaken for a lily is the Peruvian Lily which is non-toxic
Peruvian
Lily (non-toxic)
Tip#2:
Keep the Easter Candy away from prying noses
·
Many
goodies contain chocolate. Chocolate
contains theobromine, a chemical not
well processed by dogs, cats and ferrets. The darker the chocolate, the higher the
concentration of theobromine. Milk chocolates contain smaller amounts but
can still pose a problem if enough is ingested.
Baker's chocolate has a very concentrated amounts, and therefore should
always be stored in an inaccessible area.
·
Many
candies especially chewing gum can also contain xylitol. This sweetener, normally used in sugarless
formulations can lead to liver failure and dangerous drops in blood sugar in
dogs
·
Some
chocolates also contain caffeine
·
After
ingestion, signs can include vomiting,
diarrhea, agitation, hyperactivity, arrhythmias, fast heart rate, seizures, and in severe
cases death.
·
With
prompt intervention, the prognosis or outcome is quite good but will generally
involve hospitalization, intravenous fluid therapy, supportive care and elimination of the offending toxin
·
Easter
grass (although not candy) can cause dangerous intestinal blockages if
accidentally ingested
Tip #3: Chicks and Bunnies may be cute but fight the urge to buy them
·
Hundreds
of rabbits are given up to shelters each year after Easter.
·
Unfortunately,
there is a wide misconception that rabbits are "easy" pets and make
good pets for children.
·
Unless
the child is older (12 years or older), the movements of small children can
easily spook a rabbit and also put your child in danger (Bunnies can nip and
scratch when scared)
·
Rabbits
can make wonderful pets but their care requires a big commitment. Rabbits can live as long as
10-12 years. From the right nutrition,
housing, and even finding the right
veterinarian they are a big responsibility.
·
It
is illegal to sell chicks and many counties do not even allow them as pets.
·
Tip#4:
The Heat is On! --with the onset of spring and summer (especially in
Florida), there are a few things we need to remember to ensure our pets'
safety.
·
Do
not leave your pets in the car, even if the windows are rolled down. The inside of your car can easily reach
temperatures of 120 degrees in just a few minutes. This can cause dangerous increases in your
pets temperature and can quickly lead to heatstroke.
Vehicle Temperatures
Outside
Temperature
|
Inside
(car) Temperature
|
Time
to reach
|
75
degrees
|
100
degrees
|
10
minutes
|
75
degrees
|
120
degrees
|
30
minutes
|
85
degrees
|
90
degrees
|
5
minutes
|
85
degrees
|
100
degrees
|
7-10
minutes
|
85
degrees
|
120
degrees
|
20
minutes
|
100
degrees
|
140
degrees
|
15
minutes
|
***Disclaimer: Values are based on averages and temperatures can rise
much faster than indicated***
·
Since
our furry companions are unable to sweat, in a matter of minutes their
temperatures can quickly increase to dangerous levels. At a body temperature of 104, quick action
needs to take place to bring the body temperature down. At temperatures of 106 and above, it is a dire emergency and even with prompt
treatment there is a possibility of death!
·
Remember
that tethering is illegal in Broward if the ambient temperature is greater than
85 degrees and lower than 45 degrees.
Regardless of the temperature, tethering can be dangerous if the pet
becomes tangled or inadvertently chokes themselves.
·
Exercise
is an important aspect in keeping your pets healthy! If you run or exercise with your pets, always
do it during dusk or dawn when the temperatures are tolerable for our pets (75
degrees or less). During hot weather our
pets are also at a high risk of heatstroke.
Many pets will seem ok while exercising and overheat before the owner
realizes they are in trouble.
·
Also
watch out for hot pavement, which can lead to painful burns on the pads and
feet.
·
Signs
to watch for :
Ø
Panting
excessively
Ø
Lethargic
Ø
Vomiting
Ø
Diarrhea
Ø
Unresponsiveness
Ø
Disorientation/Seizures
·
If
your pet experiences a heat related issue cover them with a cool wet towel and
transport to your veterinarian immediately.
Tip#5:
Pool Safety
·
Many
dogs love to swim and can be an enjoyable activity for you and your pet. Always watch your pet while he/she is
enjoying a dip in the pool.
·
If
your pet is not a strong swimmer, a pet life vest or other pet approved
flotation device should be used.
·
Ensure
that easy access is available to exit the pool.
If you are unsure whether your pet knows how to exit the pool, it may
require a few sessions with you in the pool with them to teach them how to exit
safely.
·
If
they become fatigued and are unable to exit the pool safely they are at risk
for drowning.
·
When
you are away or not using the pool, a safety gate should encircle the pool as
animals can easily fall in (especially are more elderly and/or arthritic pets)
Spring
is a great time for our pets, just remember these safety tips and ensure a safe
an fun season your pet!
Parkland Veterinary Hospital,
7675 N State Road 7,
Parkland, FL 33073
Phone: 954.757.1729,
Fax: 954.775.0829
7675 N State Road 7,
Parkland, FL 33073
Phone: 954.757.1729,
Fax: 954.775.0829
Located at the corner of:
Loxahatchee Rd and US 441,
Behind the CVS Pharmacy,
In the Waterways Shoppes Plaza
Loxahatchee Rd and US 441,
Behind the CVS Pharmacy,
In the Waterways Shoppes Plaza
Our Slogan: "At The Heart of Veterinary
Medicine" (TM)
