Caring for pets is a year round job but certain seasons in
New England present unique hazards. Summer has the heat and winter is quite
cold, but autumn can also be a dangerous time for pets if you are not careful.
The presence of wild critters known to carry rabies including raccoon's and
skunks, the growth of potentially toxic wild mushrooms and pesticide sprays
around a home can all be very dangerous for a dog or cat. At the Middletown Vet
we want your pet to be as safe as possible so we offer some helpful tips for
keeping your furry friend healthy.
Fall brings the growth of several potentially toxic plants.
Chrysanthemum, Meadow Saffron and a variety of wild mushrooms can be very
harmful for a dog or cat if ingested. You will know your pet has eaten a
harmful plant if he displays the following symptoms: stumbling, skin inflammation,
vomiting and diarrhea. Watch closely for these signs and also do your best to
remove mushrooms from your yard.
When the weather starts to get chilly wild animals will seek
refuge in homes, basements and garages. This can mean raccoon's, skunks and
squirrels encroaching on your property. While these critters are not known for
aggressive behavior, an encounter with your pet can turn into a fight and if
the animal is carrying rabies your cat or dog can be in trouble. Be proactive
by ensuring your home does not have any easy access spots for wild animals and
if a raccoon or skunk is in the house contact a professional animal removal
specialist.
In addition to small critters your home may also be invaded
by rats and mice looking to get out of the cold.
Many homeowners will have
their foundations sprayed with pesticides to kill off these rodents but these chemicals
can be harmful to your pet if inhaled or ingested. Always have your dog or cat
out of the home when a spraying is done and ask the pest control specialist when
it is safe for pets to enter the home again after spraying is done.
