If you decide to adopt a pet, it is important to take proper care of it. Some people will adopt animals and love the companion they give them but fail to provide the care they deserve. Animals are prone to various problems and threats, such as cold and wild animals being run over by cars. For example, you can install a mesh shade tarp for your dog to prevent it from intruders and cold.
Research has shown that a pet can improve its caregiver’s well-being and health. Regardless of the animal you love, you should take good care of them. Besides, pets can catch various types of diseases, some of which can even be fatal. Also, some animal diseases can be transferred to human beings affecting the quality of life. Read the following article to learn how to take care of your animals and pets at home.
Keep them Sheltered
It is best to keep your pets inside your house like any other family member. Pet cats should not be left outside, especially during the winter. While dogs enjoy being taken out frequently for exercise and strolls, they should stay indoors for the rest of the time. If your dog cannot stay in the house with you for whatever reason, keep them in a nice shelter such as a mesh tarps. However, the mesh tarp should be small enough to hold in body heat but large enough to allow them to move comfortably.
Also, cover your animal shelter’s doorway, preferably with a waterproof tarp. During winter, provide your pets that stay outside with more food. This is because they need a lot of energy to keep warm. Regularly check your animal’s water point or dish to ensure it remains fresh and unfrozen. Remember, they still need water even though the temperatures are low. Plastic bowls for food and water are best, as your pet’s tongues can get stuck and freeze to metallic ones.
Keep Up with Vaccinations
Staying with animals can be risky, especially if they contract diseases that can be passed to humans. One of the best ways to keep your pets safe from illnesses is by giving them vaccines. Some of the most common diseases that can be vaccinated against include:
- Lyme disease
- Distemper
- Intestinal worms
- Bordet Ella
- Heartworms
- Rabies
- Parvovirus etc.
Your vet might recommend some vaccines depending on your pet’s risk of contracting the illnesses. On the other hand, other vaccines may be required, even by the law, depending on the place you live. You should adhere to your pet’s vaccination schedule to guarantee total protection. Remember, some vaccines will require boosters after a certain period.
Eliminate or Keep Away Any Common Poisons
While you might require antifreeze, especially during winter, remember it is a deadly poison. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that will attract small kids and animals when stored carelessly. It is best to immediately wipe up any antifreeze spills and store them out of reach like any other household chemicals. Antifreeze and coolants made from propylene glycol are less toxic to family members, wildlife and pets; nevertheless, they should be stored correctly.
Among other animals, dogs are particularly at a high risk of salt poisoning in winter following the rock salt used in various places. This is because they tend to lick it from their paws after a stroll. So, wipe your dog’s paws even after short strolls outside. However, if your pet ingests rock salt, contact a vet immediately to avoid complications.
Keep your Animals Away from Wildlife
Wild animals such as opossums and raccoons carry diseases that may spread to your pets when scratched or bitten. Your pets will tend to loiter around in the bushes, especially when you stroll with them at the park, where they can meet wild animals. Therefore, it is best to keep them safe by monitoring their every move, keeping them in a fenced yard from palisade fence companies or having them strapped.
Further, take precautions to avoid wild animals too. For example, do not leave your pet’s water or food outside. Also, ensure your outdoor trash cans are always tightly covered and store them in enclosed places like the garage. Contact animal control if you notice wild animals living in your compound.
Watch and Monitor What Your Pets Eat
Granting your pet a healthy diet is the best thing to do. However, some pets will be curious even with a nice meal and try to ingest foods in the trash can. This might lead to sicknesses as the spoiled food in the trash can may have parasites or bacteria. Again, restrict your pet from using communal water bowls like those in parks.
Remember, animals need to be protected just like humans.
