- That’s shocking–Young animals love to chew when they’re teething. Keep electrical wires out of reach, or use a pet-repellent spray.
- They’d die for some chocolate–Chocolate can be dangerous. It contains theobromine, a powerful stimulant that is toxic to pets. Sweets, cakes and cookies can also upset a young animal’s G.!. tract and lead to diarrhea and vomiting, which can be serious.
- Treats can be threats–Never give turkey, chicken or rib bones as a treat. They can splinter and cause serious injury.
- Common household killers–Cleaning agents, bleach, ammonia, disinfectants, drain cleaner, oven cleaner, paint, gasoline, rat poison. Keep them locked up.
- Check the antifreeze–Pets are attracted to the odor and sweet taste of antifreeze. Store it high and tightly sealed, wiping up any spills on the garage floor. Window-washing solution also contains antifreeze. And remember, engine warmth promotes cat naps, so honk your horn to wake pets under the hood.
- Killer house plants=Poisonous plants include lilies, philodendron, diffenbachia, elephant ear, eucalyptus, spider plants, azalea, ivy, amaryllis, pyracantha, oleander, boxwood, jerusalem cherry and plant bulbs.
- Keep off the grass—If you treat your lawn with chemicals, keep pets away. Read and follow label directions carefully.
- It fit yesterday–Puppies and kittens grow rapidly. Collars and harnesses can be rapidly outgrown, leading to serious wounds.
- Take care of personal items, and medications–Cosmetics, shampoos, skin creams, hair perm solutions, depilatories, suntan lotions, sleeping pills, antihistamines, aspirin and acetaminophen can all be lethal to pets.
- It’s not a toy–Don’t leave plastic bags out. Inquisitive young animals, especially kittens, can suffocate.
- The heat is 00–Watch out for hot irons, coffee pots and space heaters. Kittens and puppies will suddenly be able to jump to new heights.
- A dip tip–Keep covers on hot tubs and swimming pools. Kittens and puppies can fall in and not be able to get out.
- ‘Tis the season=Keep holly, mistletoe and especially Christmas tree tinsel out of reach.
- Cozy up–Always use a fireplace screen.
- Do you eat with that mouth?–Rule of thumb: If any or all of something will fit in a mouth, it’s dangerous. Watch out for cigarette butts, rubber bands, balloons, sewing needles, thread, string, ribbons and yes, even pantyhose. Because what goes in must come out, often via surgery.