Safety Tips
As a dog owner, it’s important to remember that your furry friend’s safety and health is important in 4 season climates like Ontario. This can vary per season, with things like booties being important in the winter, while in the summer it’s important to keep your pooch hydrated. I have collected a lot of information to share with everyone to ensure your dog is as safe as I am year round.
Use the Safety Tips by Category menu above for easy navigating.
Camping & Outdoor
Food Safety
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Don't feed them any harmful foods, such as chocolate (especially dark), grapes, onions and macadamia nuts)Don't feed them any harmful foods, such as chocolate (especially dark), grapes, onions and macadamia nuts)
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Don’t feed your dog antlersDon’t feed your dog antlers
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Never give them alcoholNever give them alcohol
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Don’t feed then rawhideDon’t feed then rawhide
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Don’t overfeed your dogDon’t overfeed your dog
Finding a Lost Dog
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Make sure the collar fits correctlyMake sure the collar fits correctly
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Make sure your dog is microchippedMake sure your dog is microchipped
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Always have identification tags on themAlways have identification tags on them
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Make sure your dog has good recall before going to a dog parkMake sure your dog has good recall before going to a dog park
Understanding Medication
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Never give human prescription or over-the-counter medicine unless advised by your vetNever give human prescription or over-the-counter medicine unless advised by your vet
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Use tick/flea and Heartworm medications in the warmer months (May-Nov)Use tick/flea and Heartworm medications in the warmer months (May-Nov)
Healthy Sleep
Being Social
Doggy daycare has been extremely popular for dog owners across Ontario, as it gives your pooch a safe place to interact with other dogs. In addition, it provides both mental and physical stimulation that your dog may not necessarily get at home. So how do you know which doggy daycare is the right one for your furry family member? Especially considering how popular they now are. There are many styles of daycares, from larger facilities to people offering doggy daycare in their home. Unfortunately, doggy daycare is unregulated, so it’s important to ensure that the doggy daycare you select is the right one.
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Do proper introductions with new dogsDo proper introductions with new dogs
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Use caution when introducing your dog to new people or new situationsUse caution when introducing your dog to new people or new situations
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Know your dog’s demeanourKnow your dog’s demeanour
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Separate multiple dogs in the home when you can’t watch themSeparate multiple dogs in the home when you can’t watch them
Summertime Safety
There are certain breeds that naturally take to the water, and others that don’t. And although most dogs have a natural instinct and know how to swim, this isn’t always the case. As well, just like humans, a dog that is scared or tired can start to struggle when in the water. There could also be something stopping them from staying afloat, like, for example, a wake from a passing boat. For the safety of your dog, it’s important to think about using a safety vest or jacket, also known as a doggy life jacket. Life vests may seem like an unnecessary thing for a dog, but they can often be extremely important, especially for dogs that spend a lot of time in or near water. Be it a lake at the cottage, a dog park along the Lakeshore or a backyard swimming pool, in some situations a life vest could literally save your dog’s life. But choosing the right life jacket for you furry family member is important.
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Avoid strenuous exercise on hot daysAvoid strenuous exercise on hot days
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Make sure your lawn is treated with fertilizers, herbicides or insecticides that are pet friendlyMake sure your lawn is treated with fertilizers, herbicides or insecticides that are pet friendly
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Keep them away from sunscreen, as it contains toxic ingredientsKeep them away from sunscreen, as it contains toxic ingredients
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Never leave a dog outside for too long in the heatNever leave a dog outside for too long in the heat
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Always have fresh water handyAlways have fresh water handy
Going to The Vet
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Going For A Walk
One of the most important things to buy for your dog (and you) is a leash. And not just any leash, but the right leash. Leashes are more than just a restraint. They are a way to communicate to your pooch so that you can both have an enjoyable walk. A good leash will help you guide your dog and keep him/her from running off in excitement or fear. Safety is also a main factor when it comes to dog leashes. There are numerous different leashes that are good for different uses. But basically, what it comes down to is finding the right configuration of material, size and features that are right for you and your dog. It’s also important to remember that a leash can save your best friend’s life. Here are some dog leash safety tips to help you decide which leash is best for you.
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Make sure the collar fits correctlyMake sure the collar fits correctly
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Keep them on a leash when in public placesKeep them on a leash when in public places
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Never use a restartable leashNever use a restartable leash
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Wipe your pet’s paws and underside after being outside (salt can be toxic)Wipe your pet’s paws and underside after being outside (salt can be toxic)
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Watch what they put in their mouth on walksWatch what they put in their mouth on walks
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If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your dogIf it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your dog
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Dress them warm on cold daysDress them warm on cold days
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Use booties if your dog’s paws are irritated by the salt, or use petroleum jelly or paw protectorUse booties if your dog’s paws are irritated by the salt, or use petroleum jelly or paw protector
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