Keeping pets safe

Before you get your new pet, you need to find out all you can about it - what kind of food, when to feed, when to go to the vet, where is the nearest dog training centre (only if you are getting a dog of course - I don't think they train spiders or mice or even crocodiles!)

A well-behaved and trained dog is easier to handle and much more pleasant to have around than a dog which jumps up, pulls on a lead and is a total embarrassment when other people are around.

Young animals like to check out anything new to them with their eyes, claws, tongues and teeth.

It's a bit like having a baby around. You have to think for them and make sure that they can't get at anything which could harm them. Make sure that electric cords are out of their reach, or cover any cords that are near the ground with something they can't chew through.
Don't give them human medicines. If your pet has a cough, your cough mixture could make it ill.
Keep all medicines - human or pet - out of your pet's reach. Like babies, they will taste everything they see, and they can't read the label either.
Only give your pets treats that are specially made for them. Yes, I know pets think they should share your treats but chocolates and chewing gum can make them ill.
Look around your yard for danger to your pet. Are there any holes, gaps in concrete, drains or swimming pools that your pet could fall into or get stuck in? (If you have a compost heap, it's a good idea to cover it up, as some pets I have known just love rolling in anything smelly!)
Make sure there are no poisons, like snail bait, where your pet could go. Snail bait is very poisonous for dogs and cats.
Be careful to keep your toys away from your pet, as small pieces could get stuck in your pet's throat.
Don't let your pets wander around the district without you. They could get hurt or catch diseases from other animals.
Teach pets to 'do the right things'. If you let your cute puppy jump onto the furniture, will you be happy for him to do the same when he's a fully-grown dog? I don't think so!
Don't leave your dog in a car when the weather is hot.
Give your pet lots of exercise.



As you can see, there are lots of things to think about before you bring a pet into your home.