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.
