Pet Safety
Posted: 12/10/2009
Tucker's Winter Safety Tips
With winter weather upon us, Tucker has a few tips that will help keep your canine owner healthy.
Keep paws free from ice, sand, salt and mud as much as possible. If you find salt on your pal's paws, rinse it off with warm water.
If the weather is especially cold, check for frostbite. Look for white, gray or reddish skin, or if it's peeling or scaly. If so, take your pet to the vet immediately.
We all want the holidays to be a happy time for everyone. For more holiday safety tips click here!
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Posted: 07/29/2009
Tucker's Summer Safety Tips
Tucker does not like the heat and humidity of the summer days. He is always looking for ways to beat the heat.
Here are some of Tucker's thoughts to ensure that your Scottie has a safe and healthy summer.
- Exercise early in the morning or late evening when the temperatures are cooler.
- Keep your Scottie at home versus taking them in the car.
- Avoid bringing you friend to the beach or park on very hot days. They can become dehydrated very quickly.
- Plan ahead for vacations. If you cannot bring your Scottie along, ask a friend to pet sit in your home. Avoid kennels at all costs.
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Posted: 07/21/2009
Tucker's Thoughts on Car Security
Ten years ago, author Stephen King was hit and severely injured by a minivan because it's driver was distracted by his loose Rottweiler.
Some very scarey things can happen if you do not buckle up your furry companion. In addition, Tucker asks..."Whay about your dog's safety?
Do you secure your dog in your car? Read more on CANINE CAR SAFETY!
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Posted: 03/29/2009
Fertilizers Pose a Serious Health Risk to Your Scottish Terrier
Do not overlook the many health risks associated with fertilizers. Do not allow your Scottie near any known lawns containing fertilizers. Remember, Scotties love to inspect everything. However, their natural curosity can get them in trouble.
Little yellow flags surrounding any lawn or grassy area should send off alarm bells immediately. These areas should be avoided at all costs, because they pose serious long-term health risks to our Scotties.
Exposure to Herbicide-treatedLawns and Gardens increases the risk of bladder cancer in Scottish terriers.
Be sensible and be safe during this time of year. We want our Scotties to be with us for a long time. Keep them away from lawn and plant chemicals and them will be!
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Posted: 02/02/2009
Tucker, the Scotish Terrier Chemist
Pretty soon the snow will be gone and spring will be upon us. Well, with a Scottish Terrier optimism is boundless.
Oh boy! Let's be careful of what we wish for, and be ready to protect our Scotties from the inherent risks brought on by the good weather.
As many of us know, Scotties are about 20 times more likely to develop bladder cancar than other breeds. Exposure to herbicides and pesticides increases the risk of our Scotties developing this form of cancer.
The "cure." Do all you can to minimize your Scottie's exposure to plants and lawns treated with insecticides and herbicides.
Our Scotties are at Great Risk. We should be very careful about where they exercise and roam. If you have a "Scottie-Walker" during the work day, be sure to give them very specific instructions on where and where not to walk your owner.
Posted: 01/29/2009
Tucker's Winter Storm Advisory
Did you know that antifreeze is a lethal poison for your Scottie? During the winter, keep your Scottie away from coolants and antifreeze.
When the snow melts, it follows the course of gravity. However, there is a hidden risk to your Scottish Terrier that you must be aware of in order to protect your beloved one.
Mixed in with the melting snow may be diluted coolant and antifreeze from the very street you live on. This can be very dangerous, and can put your Scottie at high risk.
Following your many winter walks, you should thoroughly wipe off your Scottie's feet and pads and stomach. Your Scottie can ingest salt, coolant or antifreeze while licking his paws and pads following these walks. If you do not wipe his feet, pads and stomach, he could become quite sick.
Be careful in the winter. What you do not see can hurt your Scottie!!
Posted: 01/26/2009
Tucker's Review of Pet Policies
Following Huricane Katrina, Congress passed the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act (PETS Act). This Act ensures that state and local emergency preparedness plans address the needs of individuals with household pets and service animals following a major disaster or emergency.
According to Tucker..."This is an important milestone in that it sheds light on the importance of pets to their human companions."
Tucker goes on to say..."However, the PETS Act does not go far enough in offering solutions to pets and their human companions DURING a crisis or an emergency."
However, we are now beginning to see some local communities starting to include pets in their local evacuation and emergency planning. Towns and municipalities that fail to do so will risk non-qualification for funding inder the PETS Act.
During last month's ice storm in New Hampshire, many pet owners chose to stay in their homes with their pets even though they were without heat and electricity.
Tucker wants everyone to be prepared with a household emergency plan should electricity and heat be lost during the winter months.
-Identify a hotel nearby that is pet friendly.
-Make sure that your pet is registered with the local municipality.
- Always carry with you the location of the nearest veterinary office.
- Have an emergency supply of food, water, blankets, treats and toys for your pet.
- Always have the emergency phone numbers of the police and fire departments.
Most important of all - Obtain a copy of your city or town's emergency evacuation plan. Insist that it include provisions for protecting your pet in all such instances.
Posted: 01/20/2009
Tucker's Medical Advice
There is ample evidence about that suggests that Scottish Terriers are "18 times" more at risk for bladder cancer (TCC) than most other breeds.
Known risk factors in Scotties include:
- Exposure to topical insecticides.
- Exposure to lawn herbicides.
- Exposure to spraying of insecticides.
- Obesity.
- Flea/tick products (dips).
- Female.
- Neutered.
If your Scottie exhibits any of these signs or symptoms, you may want to consult with your canine caregiver:
- Brown color or blood in the urine.
- Frequent urinations, usually in small amounts.
- Difficult or painful urination.
If you do consult your Scottie's caregiver, Tucker suggests that you ask about the V-BTA Test. This screening test is highly sensitive for the detection of TCC.
Posted: 09/01/2008
Ice Cubes Are Dangerous to Your Scottie
Are you aware of the dangers of feeding ice cubes to your Scottish Terrier, or for that matter any dog?
Giving your Scottie ice water, or ice cubes to chew on can be very dangerous to their health. The ice cubes can lead to violent muscle spasms and bloating. Signs to watch for: bloating in the stomach area, dry heaving, excessive drooling, and general distress.
Although many pet owners have for many years given their Scotties ice cubes to cool them off, there is ample reason to be save and not do so. Normal room temperature water, or cooling with cold towels on the inner thighs is the best and safest way to cool your Scottish Terrier down on a hot day.
Let us know your thoughts and experiences on this subject.
Posted: 10/10/2007
Tucker's Winter Tips
We all know what to expect during a New England winter - cold, frost, snow and ice. Each of these conditions poses a serious threat to your Scottie.
Tucker has given some thought on what you can do to keep your Scottie safe, happy and healthy during the deep freeze months.
Limit the length of your walks during the winter. Think of how cold you are during the walk. If you are really cold, so is your Scottie.
The salt and other chemicals used to melt ice and snow can irritate the pads of your Scottie's feet. Wipe the feet with a warm damp towel before your Scottie licks them and irritates his mouth.
Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that may attract your Scottie. Keep him away from it.
Keep your best friend safe and healthy during the winter, and he will remain your loyal and everlasting best friend. Right Tuck?
If you see your Scottie lifting his paw, or hear him whimpering, you can safely assume that his paw pads are frozen. Just think what it would feel like if you were walking on snow or ice in your bare feet. It would hurt.
You can minimize this distress by purchasing a pair of doggie boots, or by applying Mushers Secret Wax to your Scottie's paw pads.
Additionally, although your Scottie has a fury winter coat of sorts, we all know you can never be too warm out in the cold of the winter. Tucker suggests acquiring a lined Winter Jacket or a lined, waterproof Rain Jacket for extra protection and comfort.
Salt and other chemicals that melt ice and snow can be harmful to your Scottie. After your walk, wipe the feet with a warm towel before your Scottie licks them and irritates his mouth.
Antifreeze is a deadly poison. Its sweet taste may attract your Scottie. Keep him away from it.
If you take care of your best friend during the winter months, he will remain your loyal, everlasting best friend for ever. Right Tuck?
Posted: 10/03/2007
Tucker's Haloween Tips for a Safe Halloween
Halloween is a fun time for almost everyone, but not necessarily so for your fur child. An excited pack of ghosts and goblins at the door can scare your furry family member.
If you have a puppy in the house, beware of holiday decorations. Wires and electrical cords pose a dangerous invitation to your young, teething pet.
With the door to your home opening and closing a lot to greet the Trick or Treaters, be careful that your pet does not decide to follow one of the rascals home.
Also, be sensitive to the children who may be afraid of dogs.
Carving up a pumpkin can be a fun exercise, but placing a lighted candle in it may be hazardous to your pet. Inquiring minds and wagging tails can easily lead to knocked over pumpkins and burned tails and noses, or worse.
If you take your dog out for a walk on Halloween night, be sure that your pet is leashed. Dogs can easily be spooked by costumed "little people."
Keep candy away from your pet. Some of it is toxic, like chocolate, but candy wrappers can be very harmful, especially if swallowed.
Remember, not all pets are good with getting dressed-up. Yes, some pets are hams, but still others become very stressed by the costume parade.
Finally, keep your pet inside on Halloween. People have been known to tease, injure or steal pets and worse on Halloween.
ASPCA Halloween Safety Tips
Halloween Safety Guide
More Safety Tips
AMVA Halloween Safety Tips
Tucker says..."Have fun, but be safe."
Posted: 09/19/2007
Tucker's Poop Alert
Most pet owners act responsibly and do pick up their dogs poop. However, there are always a small number of owners in every neighborhood in America who do not pick up after their dog. Maybe these folks think they are part of the Brown Generation - as long as poop is anywhere other than in their own yard, it is OK. Perhaps they are inclined to let nature take its course. After all, they probably think that for thousands of years no picked up dog poop, so why should we begin now?
Well, for one, the city streets and sidewalks are not set in nature. Pet waste left on sidewalks, streets, neighborhood yards and lawns is more than a significant eyesore. It can create serious health risks.
Poop left on sidewalks and streets eventually gets swept into the storm sewers, which discharge into city and town waterways without any treatment. Pet poop has been considered responsible for almost one-quarter of the fecal contamination of the waterways - the very same waterways from which we obtain our drinking water.
Oh and don't forget the flies - Poop Pouncers. They refuse to confine themselves to the poop they have discovered on our sidewalks and yards. Some of them eventually find their way into our homes. Flies sit on our furniture and counter tops, etc. They are filthy. They do not wash their hands. They can leave miniature fecal specs anywhere and everywhere.
Tucker’s advice is for everyone to be a Canine Good Citizen by always picking up your dogs poop.
Posted: 08/23/2007
Tucker's List of Household Items that Can Kill!
Scotties are very curious omnivores and scavengers. He will eat just about anything. He is always looking into the trash can at the store, and I have to be very careful what I put into it.
Believe it or not, there are many toxic substances found in the typical home that could potentially kill your dog.
This is Tucker's "Danger List." He wants all people owned by dogs, but especially those newly owned, to be aware of some of the serious hazards found in the typical household.
1.) Antifreeze. It smells and tastes very sweet to a dog. If consumes it can kill your dog. If you are a city dweller, your dog could find it in the streets, or near a gas station. Be on the lookout.
2.) Chocolate. Baking chocolate and dark chocolate is particularly dangerous.
3.) Bleach. Keep all bleach products out of your dog's grasp, they are toxic.
4.) Tylenol. As little a 2 regular strength tablets can kill your dog.
5.) Watch Batteries. Keep them away from your dog. They can cause a fatal stomach ulceration.
6.) Moth Balls. They contain an insecticide that can central nervous system seizures.
7.) Fabric Softeners and Other Detergents. Keep away, they are toxic.
8.) Mouthwash. If it contains boric acid, it is toxic.
9.) Made in China. Need Tucker say more?
Veterinary care for your dog can be very expensive. Be careful around the house, and save your money for a time when your dog truly needs medical care.
Posted: 06/27/2007
Tucker's Pretty Cool
The "dog days of summer" have arrived early. Today's temperature is above 90 degrees, and the humidity is unbearable.
This kind of weather is dangerous for dogs, especially older animals. I have left Tucker at the air conditioned home office with plenty of water to drink. When I opened the door to take him out this morning, he was not too anxious to go on his early morning walk.
Tucker asked me to share his thoughts about the hot weather with you. Here are his top concerns:
1.) Never leave for "fur child" in the car. If you need to run some errands, leave your pal at home.
2.) Don't walk your dog between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Try to walk and exercise during the early morning hours and evening.
3.) Have plenty of water on hand. Make it plentifully available throughout the house or office, and always carry a water bottle with you when walking and travelling.
4.) Watch out for antifreeze. If your dog is hot, he will look for water anywhere it can be found. Street puddles often contain antifreeze and other chemicals that are extremely toxic.
5.) Excessive sun exposure can cause skin problems. Dogs with light skin and fur are particularly vulnerable to the sun.
6.) Watch out for heatstroke. The symptoms can include: panting, staring, refusal to obey commands, rapid heartbeat, etc. If any of these signs are detected, take your dog to the vet immediately.
7.) Keep your dog leashed. This will keep your dog from getting lost, and eating and drinking things that will make your best friend sick.
References:
Seasonal Health Tips
Summer Health Tips for Dogs
Summer Heat Can Be Deadly for Your Pet
Posted: 05/22/2007
Pet Hazards in your Household
Tucker wants new pet owners to be aware of hazards that exist in every household, and could potentially be harmful to your dog.
According to The American Veterinary Medical Association,"Every home contains a variety of everyday items and substances that can be dangerous or even fatal if ingested by dogs and cats. You can protect your pet's health by becoming aware of the most common health hazards found in many pet-owning households."
Hazards in the Kitchen
Potential hazards to your pet fall into three basic categories:
Food
Cleaning Products
Insecticides/Rodenticides
Food
Food that is perfectly safe for humans could be harmful or even potentially deadly to your dog.
To be safe, you should keep the following foods away from your pet: coffee grounds, chocolate, grapes, salt, macadamia nuts, onions, fatty foods, tea and alcohol. Keep your dog away from garbage. Rotting food contains bacteria that could produce food poisoning.
Cleaning Products
The best available advice is to use environmentally responsible cleaning products. Use products that are formulated with naturally derived nontixic ingredients that are free of any known human carcinogens and teratogens.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, "All-purpose cleaner, ammonia-based cleaners, bleach, brass or other metal polishes, dishwater detergent, disinfectant, drain cleaner, floor wax or polish, glass cleaner, dishwashing detergent, oven cleaner, and scouring powder contain dangerous chemicals."
All cleaning products should be stored in a secure cabinet and out of your dogs reach.
Insecticides/Rodenticides
Keep your "fur child" away from these products. Before using any of these products read the instructions label, and keep your dog away from the sprayed areas.
Posted: 05/18/2007
Tucker's Dog Safety Tips
Tucker wants everyone to be safe during the summer months, and to be safe around all dogs.
Most people, especially children, seem to love dogs. They just need to learn to love dogs with some caution.
This lesson is critically important for kids. According to the Humane Society of the United States, each year about 4.7 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs—80% of them by canines we know and interact with regularly—and it's estimated that more than half of those victims are under the age of 13. What's more, children are at least three times more likely to sustain a serious dog bite than adults.
Most dog bites can be prevented. During National Dog Bite Prevention Week, May 16-22, 2007, the National Association for Humane and Environmental Education is spreading the word on how to prevent dog bites.
Dog Bite Prevention Steps
Even a well trained, friendly dog can become uncomfortable with a child's sudden movement and loud voice. Around dogs, children should speak softly and move slowly, and follow these simple rules.
Before petting an unfamiliar dog, ask the owner's permission. If it is given - it may not always be granted - approach slowly and quietly. Let the dog sniff the back of your hand first, then pet the dog's back or sides gently - avoid petting the head.
Do not sneak up on a dog that is eating or sleeping. Startled and frightened dogs may bite.
Never try to pet a dog while it is playing with a toy or chewing on a bone. Dog's are often protective of toys and treats, and may think a child is trying to take it.
Never try to pet a dog who is behind a fence. Most dogs are naturally protective of property and home.
Unknown and Off-Leash Dogs
Children should be taught to avoid such dogs, not make eye contact, and to slowly and quietly walk away.
If a dog approaches, a child should be taught to stop walking and stand still with their hands at their side.
Do not try to outrun a dog. A dogs natural instinct is to chase and catch someone. In stead, back away slowly from him.
Posted: 05/16/2007
Ticks of Summer
Now that the weather has turned warmer, pets and their people will be outdoors more.
A walk in the park or along a bicycle trail, or a visit to a camp ground can be delightful for both man and dog. However, lurking out in nature are ticks which are transmitters of Lyme disease in dogs.
The bacteria are carried by ticks which transmit the infection when they feed on animals and humans. The disease can cause generalized illness in animals.
The signs of lyme disease in dogs are fever, loss of appetite, sore joints, a stiff gait, or lameness. If your dog shows these signs, see your veterinarian. Lyme disease normally responds within two days to treatment to antibiotics.
If you find a tick on your dog, grasp it with a tweezers close to the animals body and gently pull the tick straight out. Do not try to burn the tick or put petroleum jelly on it. You can purchase a tick removal kit at The Lyme Disease Foundation.
Posted: 05/09/2007
Tucker's Hot Weather Tips
Now that the hot weather has descended upon us, it is worth taking a moment to think about what heat does to our dogs.
Dogs are very susceptible to overheating. A dog's cooling system consists of their sweat glands located on their nose and on the pads of their feet. On a very hot day, a dog has a very limited ability to adjust its temperature. They are much less efficient that we are at cooling themselves.
A dog left in a car on a hot day can suffer brain and organ damage after just 15 minutes of exposure. If in doubt on a hot day, Tucker says... "Play it safe and leave your fur child at home."
Also, Tucker suggests limiting your dog's exposure to asphalt during the summer. Asphalt can get incredibly hot. Although your dog's paw pads are tough, they are not resilient enough to withstand lengthy exposure to asphalt. If you cannot walk on the asphalt in your bare feet without some discomfort, you should not allow your dog to do so either.
Finally, always have a water bottle handy when walking or traveling with your dog during the summer. For more information on pet safety, visit The Humane Society of the United States.
| About the Author:
Paul McCarthy, entrepreneur, is owned by Tucker, a 12-year old Scottish terrier, whose paw prints, ideas and thoughts appear everywhere.
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