Keeping Your Dog Safe From Wildlife

Photo by Justine's Pawtography

Spring is finally beginning to show its beautiful face, and we could not be more excited! This time of year, many types of wildlife are emerging from a long winter slumber. Just like you and your canine companion, they’re ready to be out and about! Here’s a few tips to help keep you and your pal safe in the coming months.

Keep your dog on a leash while taking walks. You never know when you or your pup might spot a rabbit or a squirrel! If your dog was not on a leash, they might chase after the rabbit, and could injure themselves, someone else, or the rabbit. There are also plenty of wild animals that could potentially hurt your dog if they were to run after it, such as porcupines, coyotes, and raccoons.

Another way to help protect your pet is to arm yourself with knowledge. Research local wildlife and familiarize yourself with which animals are more likely to live in your area. This can be especially true when it comes to snakes. Although your dog should see a veterinarian as soon as possible if they are bitten by a snake, it can be very helpful to the veterinarian to know in advance what kind of snake bit your dog. Hopefully this never happens to you, but it’s always best to be prepared! Simply remaining attentive during a walk can often times be enough to spot and avoid a snake.

Sometimes, it is not the wildlife itself, but the diseases that it may carry that are dangerous to your pet. Some of the most common carriers of diseases and parasites are fleas, ticks, and mosquitos. Luckily, there are preventatives that help protect your pet. Make sure your pet stays up to date all year long on their flea & tick, and heartworm preventatives. Although these insects are more prominent in the warmer weather, they pose a threat to our animals even when it is cool outside, and even if you have an indoor-only pet.
        

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