Pet emergencies are scary, but with research and planning, many emergencies can be easily prevented. Our Stack Veterinary Hospital team has compiled seven steps you can take to prevent your pet from having an emergency. 

1. Don’t share toxic human foods with your pet

While it may be tempting to share a bite with your pet, many of our favorite foods, including chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, caffeine, and sugar-free sweets, can be toxic to pets. To prevent your pet from ingesting toxic human food, keep them out of the kitchen when you’re cooking, clean up after yourself, and keep your food on your own plate. In this case, sharing is not caring! 

2. Safely store household products

Many household products, such as paint, bleach, laundry detergent, pesticides, and fertilizers, are toxic to pets. The effects of ingesting one of these toxins range from gastrointestinal upset to life-threatening neurologic issues. Keep all household products safely put away in cabinets or on high, out-of-reach shelves. When using these products, keep your pet in a separate room to avoid an accident. 

3. Buy only pet-safe plants

Many people enjoy decorating their home with various plants and flowers. Unfortunately, many of these beautiful plants, such as lilies, tulips, azaleas, and peonies, are toxic to pets. Check out the ASPCA’s toxic and nontoxic plant list before your next trip to the flower shop to ensure you bring home only pet-safe plants. 

4. Keep your pet cool on hot days

Heatstroke is a serious threat to pets, especially during the hot summer months. When temperatures are high, ensure your pet has constant access to fresh, cool drinking water. Limit outdoor activity to cooler times of the day, taking your dog for walks in the morning and evening. You can also set up a kiddie pool or sprinkler system in your backyard to keep your pet cool and entertained.

5. Keep your pet on a leash

Your pet may have perfect recall, but there is no guarantee other pets will behave. Accidents happen, and it’s always better to take precautions. Unless your pet is in a fenced area, it’s important to keep them on a non-retractable leash for their safety. 

6. Monitor your pet’s playtime 

Socialization is an important way to keep dogs stimulated and entertained. Doggy playdates are fun and adorable, but they aren’t without risks. Closely monitor your dog’s playtime with other dogs and watch for signs of stress or anxiety, such as raised fur, exposed teeth, stiffness, or growling, and remove your dog from the situation immediately. 

Toys are also vital for your pet’s entertainment and cognitive stimulation. Ensure your pet’s toys are appropriate for them by choosing ones of the right material and size. If your pet tends to shred toys, choose options that can’t be torn apart, as ingestion of the material can cause an intestinal obstruction. Choose toys that are large enough that your pet can’t swallow or choke on them. 

7. Catch signs of illnesses early before they become an emergency

Signs of diseases and medical problems are often subtle, especially in the early stages. Wellness visits allow our veterinary team to catch and treat diseases early, when treatment is likely to be most effective and before they progress to an emergency. Most pets should have routine wellness exams at least once a year, and senior pets may require more frequent visits. During your pet’s wellness exam, our veterinary team will perform a thorough physical exam and blood work to evaluate your pet’s health. We will recommend necessary vaccinations, parasite preventives, and dental cleanings, to prevent a range of diseases that could lead to an emergency. 

You’re now equipped to prevent the most common pet emergencies. However, we know that pets are unpredictable and accidents happen. If your pet gets themselves in an emergency situation, contact our Stack Veterinary Hospital team immediately.