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Kittens and puppies are naturally inquisitive, which can often
lead to serious injury. Here are some tips on how you can make your house
safer for the new arrival.
That's shocking--Young animals love to chew when they are
teething. Keep electrical wires our of reach, or use a pet-repellent
spray.
They'd die for some chocolate--Chocolate can be
dangerous. It contains theobromine, a powerful stimulant that is toxic to
pets. Sweets, cakes and cookies can also upset a young animal's G.I. tract
and lead to diarrhea and vomiting, which can be serious.
Treats can be threats--Never give cooked turkey, chicken
or rib bones as a treat. They can splinter an cause serious injury.
Common household killers--Cleaning agents, bleach,
ammonia, disinfectants, drain cleaner, oven cleaner, paint gasoline, rat poison,
Keep them locked up.
Check the antifreeze--Pets are attracted to the odor and
sweet taste of antifreeze. Store it high and tightly sealed, wiping up any
spills on the garage floor. Window-washing solution also contains
antifreeze. And remember, engine warmth promotes cat naps, so honk you horn to
wake pets under the hood.
Killer house plants--Poisonous plants include lilies,
philodendron, dieffenbachia, elephant ear, eucalyptus, spider plants, azalea,
ivy, amaryllis, pyracantha, oleander, boxwood, Jerusalem Cherry and plant bulbs.
Keep off the grass--If you treat your lawn with
chemicals, keep pets away. Read and follow label directions carefully.
It fit yesterday--Puppies and kittens grow rapidly.
Collars and harnesses can be rapidly outgrown, leading to serious wounds.
The care of personal care items. And medication--Cosmetics,
shampoos, skin creams, hair "perm" solutions, depilatories, suntan
lotions, sleeping pills, antihistamines, aspirin and acetaminophen can all be
lethal to pets.
It's not a toy--Don't leave plastic bags out. Inquisitive
young animals, especially kittens can suffocate.
The heat is on--Watch out for hot irons, coffee pots and
space heaters. Kittens and puppy will suddenly be able to jump to new heights.
A dip tip--Keep covers on hot tubs and swimming
pools. Kittens and even young puppies can fall in and not be able to
get out.
'Tis the season--Keep holly, mistletoe and especially
Christmas tree tinsel out of reach.
Cozy up--Always use a fireplace screen.
Do you eat with your mouth?--Rule of thumb: If any or all
of something will fit in a mouth, it's dangerous. Watch out for cigarette butts,
rubber bands, balloons, sewing needles, thread, string, ribbons and, yes, even
pantyhose. Because what goes in must come out, often via surgery.
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