Animal Safety Month: Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe
Held each October, National Animal Safety and Prevention Month was created by the PALS Foundation to educate the public about the benefit of adopting pets as well as the proper methods for caring for domestic animals. This observance month runs in-line with ASPCA's Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.
Why Adopt Animals?
There are many reasons to adopt a pet dog or cat. For starters, individuals choosing to adopt from local animal shelters or animal humane societies are saving lives and giving animals a chance at a better life. Each year, approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter into U.S. animal shelters waiting to find a forever home. Out of the millions, 56 percent of dogs and 71 percent of cats are euthanized because they are deemed 'unwanted' by potential adopters.
Pets bring joy to families and act as security systems. Not only do they ward off deer and other wild animals from landscapes; but they reduce the threat of intruders from entering onto the premises.
Dogs keep us fit and active. Hikers, walkers and joggers alike can take their furry best friends for day hiking trips or around the block. By doing so, dog owners are helping dogs strengthen leg muscles, keep lean and feel young.
The list of reasons why to adopt a dog or cat can go on and on!
Caring for animals
Animals need more than just a roof over their heads. They need love, nurture and health care. Here are a few animal care and wellness tips to consider for both cats and dogs:
Car rides: Dogs love them; but if you plan to go somewhere with your dog, make sure you drop them at home or are able to take them inside the pet store. As with children, do not leave your pet inside a car unattended for extended periods of time. Dogs are prone to heat stroke, as well.
Although dogs enjoy having the breeze in their face, road grime and insects can get in their eyes and mouth. Keep windows partially rolled down.
ID pets
Cats have an internal GPS system that traces their steps back to the house; but dogs aren't as lucky. (Even cats get lost, too.) Keep collars on domestic dogs and cats to ensure that they are reunited with pet owners. Regularly check to see that the collar did not slip off from the dog or cat. If your dog appears uncomfortable, the collar may be too tight for them.
Dog and Cat Toys
Cats love playing with yarn; but yarn can become a choking hazard, if the cat gets wrapped-up in it. Supervise your cat's activity and make sure the toy isn't posing a threat. Avoid giving dogs chew toys or stuffed animals with small parts that can be choked on or torn off.
Visiting the Veterinarian
Cats and dogs need regular, routine visits to the vet's office to be checked for ticks and worms and to receive shots. Semi-annual to annual visits are suffice; but as the dog ages, they will require additional visits.
Proper Diet and Exercise
Diet and exercise go hand-and-hand for humans and pets. Without healthy pet food, pets feel sluggish, lazy, and will not want to get out and move around. They risk health damage including cardiovascular diseases and obesity. In fact, 53 percent of dogs and 55 percent of cats in the United States are overweight or obese. Choosing to feed animals healthy pet foods is a great start to maintaining health.
Pets need to exercise as much as humans; and they can do so conveniently in the backyard. This is why EasyPetFence.com encourages pet owners to install fence for dogs and cats on yards.
Conclusion
There are many reasons to consider pet adoption. Dog and cat adoption from local animal shelters help match companion animals with individuals that want to place them in forever homes. In October, consider pet adoption for dogs and cats to reduce the number of homeless animals.