What you may not know can harm your pet. Here are a few quick tips to keep Fluffy purring and Fido frisky…

Most people know that chocolate can be toxic to pets and that certain plants can make them sick.  However, there are many easily-swallowed, dangerous items found in the home and certain hazardous issues that pet owners should consider when providing a safe environment for their furry family member. Check out this list to see if there’s anything you’ve unintentionally overlooked:

Xylitol
A new ingredient in sugar-free foods, xylitol has been found to cause a deadly drop in blood sugar in dogs.  Xylitol is found in many brands of sugar-free gum.  It used to be that if your dog had gotten into your purse or found a pack of gum in the car, there was no problem, but now the dog will likely need emergency care and careful monitoring.  Xylitol is also found in a variety of foods, including diet snacks and energy foods.

Grapes/Raisins
Good for people, but not so much for pets! Grapes and raisins are toxic and have been found to cause unexplained acute renal failure in animals.  If your pet has access to grapes or raisins and develops lack of appetite, increased thirst or urination, or lethargy, this is an emergency!

Acetaminophen
Just in case you hadn’t heard yet, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is fatal to cats at any dose (even a sliver).  Yes, it’s safe for pregnant women and human babies, but definitely NOT CATS!

Internet Info
The Internet is a valuable source of information and a useful tool to educate oneself about a pet’s disease…but only after the pet has been properly diagnosed by a veterinarian, since the Internet cannot replace an exam or appropriate diagnostic tools. Pets are often harmed when treatments suggested by Internet sites are instituted by their well-meaning owners who believe they are doing the right thing. Any relevant information should be discussed with your veterinarian.

Vaccinations Prevent Disease
There is growing concern in the media about over-vaccinating our pets. But certain diseases are preventable and are still a threat to our dogs and cats.  We occasionally hear reports that rabies was found in wildlife, and the law states that all indoor and outdoor pets must be vaccinated.  Make sure to include your veterinarian in the decision-making process regarding vaccinations for your pet, taking into account all risk factors.

Lost/Missing Pets
Sadly, too many lost pets are brought to our clinic in an effort to locate their owners.  If these pets were wearing collars, this would not be necessary. We do scan for microchips, but frequently owners forget to register these chips. If we detect a chip, we call the company, and have been heartbroken in some cases to hear they don’t have the owners’ information. The moral here is to be sure your dog or cat wears a collar and has a microchip embedded, and make sure that chip is registered!

Obesity
Obesity is a sensitive topic, but studies have shown that lean pets live longer than overweight pets. Arthritis in dogs and diabetes in cats can be reversed with weight loss, just as in humans. We know you love your pets, but try not to express love with food.  Instead, why not show them your love with attention, exercise, and time together.

Intestinal Foreign Objects
Items that have been surgically removed from pets’ digestive tract range from peach pits, corn cobs, and dental floss, to string, pet toys, and dirty laundry. Items from the kitchen or bathroom trashcans have been found as well. These objects can cause serious intestinal obstructions or perforations necessitating surgical removal. Keep small items out of reach even if it’s a simple pet toy…they can be swallowed when not monitored.

Pet Healthcare Can Be Expensive
Money for pet care is something that pet owners must consider, especially in this difficult economy. Don’t forgo treatment for a disease, whether an emergency or routine care, because of inadequate finances. I urge individuals to research pet insurance and third party payment plans (i.e. Care Credit) before an emergency occurs. Better still, when you bring a new pet home, start a savings account and make a routine monthly deposit to be used in case of emergency.

Pets bring us joy, love, and good mental health. Let’s return the favor and provide them with a long, safe, and healthy life.