The third week in March is Poison Prevention Week. There are tons of harmful substances and things that can harm our pets in this world. We want to inform you of the 5 things to look out for when walking your dog. There is tons of garbage and chemicals outside that can affect your dog and cause them potential harm. It’s important that you take your dog to the vet straight away if you think they have come into contact with something poisonous. Here are some of the things to avoid when walking your dog outside.
Litter
Litter and garbage can range from objects, food, or materials that people throw out irresponsibly. Dogs have a keen sense of smell, so they can find anything that catches their interests. It is essential to train your dog to avoid putting objects and random findings in their mouth. This will teach them good habits and give you peace of mind knowing they’re not picking anything up.
It’s much more challenging to teach a dog not to put food in their mouth as many dogs love food. Thrown-away food can contain bones or pieces of aluminum that can potentially cause internal damage to your dog’s stomach. Food can also contain ingredients that our dogs cannot digest or be tampered with objects that can prove fatal to our dog’s health. Training your dog to ‘leave it’ or ‘don’t touch’ is very important as it can save your dog’s life and save you a trip to the vet.
Pesticides, Herbicides, or Rodenticides
Chemicals are used in our everyday lives that prevent insects, weeds, or any unwanted rodents from spaces we don’t want them. Some pesticides, herbicides or any rodenticides can be lethal to our pets. Even a tiny dose can poison our pets. Please keep an eye out for warning signs after any gardening or lawn work and treatment is done. If you think your dog has ingested any harmful substance, please take them to your vet right away.
Feces
To no surprise, feces can be harmful to your dog. Feces not only contains the waste material of another animal it can also contain parasites and diseases that can make your dog seriously sick. Dogs eating dog poop is not good, but it isn’t unexpected behavior. This poop eating habit can be harmful if your dog consumes unknown feces on a walk. It is essential to train your dog not to consume things off the ground. If your dog has consumed unknown feces material, please monitor them and take them to a vet if they show signs of discomfort.
Puddles
While out on a walk on a warm day, our dogs might be tempted to drink some water. Free-standing puddles in the area may look refreshing to your dog. This water source is not ideal and can cause harm to your pet. Not only are puddles breeding grounds for mosquitoes, making them possible carriers of heartworm, they can also contain parasites such as giardia and leptospirosis. Even though some parasites are not deadly, they can have harmful effects and ultimately make your dog uncomfortable.
To prevent your dog from getting sick, ensure that they are up to date with their vaccinations and bring your own water on your walks.
Toxic Plants
When we go outside, we are surrounded by different plants. Your dog will inevitably sniff around grassy areas to pick up on a scent that interests them. When your dog is sniffing around the grass and shrub, keep an eye on them. Some plants can be harmful to dogs. If ingested, some plants can be poisonous, and symptoms might not show right away. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the toxic plants in your area and the potential effects they can have on your dog.
Walking is a great activity to do with your dog. Not only is it a great form of exercise for the both of you, but it’s also a great way to get some fresh air and clear your mind. As harmless as dog walking sounds, there are still potential dangers around that could be harmful if ingested by your dog. These are just 5 things to look out for when walking your dog. Be sure to keep an eye out on them on your strolls to ensure they are safe and sound!
If you are interested in our dog walking services, please contact us for additional information.
