Common Dangers to Dogs and How to Avoid Them

Keeping a dog means keeping it safe, and part of that deal involves knowing the dangers posed on a daily basis. While some threats are more dangerous than others, it’s best to know what to look out for in case your faithful companion becomes injured or unwell. Here are some common dangers to dogs and how to avoid them:

Other Animals

Unfortunately, other animals pose a threat to your dog, so be aware of this when going for a walk. Wild animals such as foxes, coyotes, and skunks may attack your dog. If they do end up injured from a wild animal, then see a vet right away and avoid treating them at home. If they’re sprayed by a skunk, for example, don’t listen to false treatments – read an article about skunk tomato juice myth here.

It’s not just wild animals that might attack your dog; other dogs could, too. To avoid them being attacked by any animal, keep them on a leash when walking and watch them closely while they’re playing at the dog park.

Toxic Food

Many foods that are fine for human consumption are poisonous to dogs, so take note of all of these, so you don’t accidentally feed them something that’ll make them ill. This includes gum, chocolate, certain nuts, onions, and alcohol. The best way to keep your dog healthy is to only feed them what’s labeled for dogs and keep human food out of reach.

Getting Lost or Stolen

Unfortunately, many dogs get lost or stolen every day, so keep your dog safe by keeping it on a leash and not letting it outside without supervision. You don’t want to be walking the streets one night pinning up posters on lampposts!

Toxic Plants

Some common household plants are toxic to dogs, so either keep them out of their reach or don’t keep them at all. These include aloe Vera, tulips, and sago palm.

There are plenty of toxic plants that reside in the wild, too, such as oak acorns, milkweed, and death camas. Keep an eye on your dog at all times, and if you notice any irregular symptoms, see your vet straight away.

Disease and Illness

All dogs get ill, but hopefully, that won’t happen until much later in life. To keep your dog as healthy as possible, give them a varied diet, plenty of exercise, and take them for regular vet check-ups. After all, you want your loyal friend to stay with you for a long time!

Too Much Sun

If the temperature soars outside, don’t expect your dog to be immune to its heat. If you decide to take your dog on a walk when it’s very hot, first check the temperature of the pavement – if it’s hot to touch, then your little friend’s feet will burn when walking.

Plenty of water is essential on a hot day, so carry around a bowl and a water bottle so they can lap up the H20 whenever they need it.

Life is full of risks, and it’s up to you as an owner to shield your dog from what could hurt them. By being aware of the dangers, your dog has a better chance of a long and happy life.