Nobody wants their pet to experience an emergency, especially one that can easily be avoided with the right knowledge. To help you avoid an unplanned vet visit, our Peak City Veterinary Hospital team has compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about preventing pet emergencies. 

Can I feed my pet human food? 

While it can be tempting to share your plate with your best pal, many foods that we enjoy, such as chocolate, onions, grapes, garlic, and sugar-free sweets, can be extremely toxic to pets. Ensure you research what foods are safe for your pet before giving them any human food, and always do so sparingly. A few safe options include uncooked fruits and veggies, such as carrots, green beans, watermelon, strawberries, and blueberries, and unseasoned, cooked chicken breast. 

What plants are toxic to pets? 

Several plant species are toxic to pets when ingested, including tulips, lilies, azaleas, and peonies. Lilies are especially poisonous to cats, and ingesting a small amount, or even water from the vase, can cause kidney failure. Check out the ASPCA’s toxic and nontoxic plant list before buying your next bouquet of flowers or house plant, to ensure you don’t plant poisonous varieties. 

What common household products can harm my pet?

Many household products and cleaners, such as bleach, laundry detergents, pesticides, and fertilizers, are toxic to pets. To be safe, store all household products in a locked cabinet or on a high, out-of-reach shelf. Keep your pet in a separate room when you are cleaning, painting, or doing laundry. 

How do I prevent my pet from overheating on hot summer days? 

Pets can easily overheat or develop heatstroke in hot, humid weather. When the temperatures rise, ensure your pet has constant access to fresh drinking water. Limit outdoor time during the hottest part of the day, and take them for walks in the early morning or evening, when temperatures are cooler. A kiddie pool or sprinkler set up in the backyard can keep your pet cool, hydrated, and entertained—and provide entertainment for you as well!

Can I let my well-trained dog off-leash? 

Even the best-trained pets can be distracted by a rabbit or bike. Accidents happen in the blink of an eye, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Unless you are in a fenced area, you should always keep your pet on a non-retractable leash. 

How can I prevent injuries during playtime? 

Socialization is important for dogs, and playdates can be a great way to keep your furry friend entertained. However, monitor your dog closely when they are playing with other dogs. Watch for signs of stress or anxiety, such as pinned ears, stiffness, exposed teeth, growling, or raised fur, and remove your pet from the situation immediately. 

Ensure your pet’s toys are an appropriate material and size. If your pet shreds stuffed toys, choose toys they can’t chew apart and ingest, which can lead to an intestinal obstruction. Choose toys that are large enough that your pet cannot swallow or choke on them. 

How can I catch disease signs early, before a condition progresses to an emergency? 

Many diseases cause subtle signs that are easy to miss, especially in the early stages. Regular wellness visits allow our veterinary team to evaluate your pet and detect diseases early, when treatment is most likely to be successful. Most pets should be assessed at least once a year, although senior pets often require more frequent visits. During your pet’s wellness visit, our team will perform a thorough physical exam and screening tests to evaluate your pet’s overall health. We will also recommend vaccinations and parasite preventives to help protect your pet from a variety of diseases that can lead to a medical emergency. 

Pet emergencies are scary, and it’s better to prevent them whenever possible. With the right knowledge, you can keep your pet safe and sound. Despite your best efforts, however, some pets still find a way to get into trouble. If your furry friend experiences an emergency, don’t hesitate to contact Peak City Veterinary Hospital.