There’s a lot more to bringing home a new pet than picking up some toys and a food dish. Our homes are full of things that are safe for us, but can be major hazards for our furry friends. The ASPCA Poison Control Center has a new list of recommendations for new pet owners to pet-proof homes, addressing common sources of poisoning and physical trauma.

Medicine

All medicine should be kept in a cupboard or sealed container that is out of reach to pets. Clients should make a habit of taking pills in the same space, being sure to put containers back where they belong. This also makes it easy to find dropped pills, the number one cause of accidental drug consumption in pets.

Pesticides, Insecticides and Rodenticides

If it’s within reach, rat poison, bug sprays and pesticides can harm pets. Even if a device is “pet resistant,” it’s not pet proof. Bait is the largest cause of accidental poisonings, as it contains flavors and scents that attract animals.

One area new pet owners tend to forget is their yard. Even long-expired pest killing chemicals can be dangerous, and it takes just one incident around a shed or storage box to lead to tragedy.


Plants

Both indoor and outdoor plants pose a hazard. While owners may have heard mistletoe is poisonous, there are dozens of plant varieties that can be harmful when eaten. Do your clients need help identifying plants that may harm their pets? The ASPCA Poison Control Center maintains separate lists for plants that are poisonous to cats, dogs and other pets.


Cleaning Supplies

These chemicals can harm pets on contact, while some soaps and detergents taste good enough to pets that they will eat them. Cleaning supplies should be stored up high in cabinets.


Trash Cans

Empty pet food containers and bits of human food are a major temptation. Add in an array of poisonous trash, including medicines, cleaning products and packaging, and you have a recipe for disaster. Trash cans should either have a self-closing lid or be placed somewhere out of reach of pets.

Toys

Given the chance, dogs will eat small toys, which can lead to intestinal blockages. While it’s easy to notice if a doll or toy car disappears, swallowed Lego bricks, action figure accessories and other small parts often go unnoticed.


Candles

A lit candle is just a push or bump away from causing a fire.


Cords and Curtains

Cats like to climb curtains, while both dogs and cats will play with cords, which could pull appliances down onto them. Either way, these objects are a major cause of injuries. Lifting them just a few feet off of the floor is usually enough to prevent problems.


Keep Your Clients In the Loop

When your patients can go months between visits, it’s easy for clients to lose track of their pets’ health care needs. Positive Impressions LLC has the products you need to help you stay connected. From appointment reminder cards to memorial products, we can help you be with your patients through every stage of their lives. We offer a range of stock designs, and can custom print items, so you can add your own personal touch. Get started by checking out our website, or visit us on Facebook to see our latest specials.