There are some interesting facts regarding the characteristics of animals during the cold months. We all think of bears hibernating in the winter, but gophers, bats, snakes and frogs also hibernate completely. Squirrels, beavers, skunks, badgers, and raccoons store food and do not hibernate entirely. Some animals, such as the arctic fox, weasel, white-tailed jackrabbit and snowshoe hare, change colors to blend in with the snow in their habitat. Their fur also thickens for added protection. As we know, certain birds and butterflies migrate.
But our pets don’t migrate or hibernate, thank goodness, so it’s up to us to guarantee their safety during wintertime. Please follow these safety tips to protect your furry loved one:
- Feed them a bit more in the winter if they live outdoors; they need extra calories to stay warm. Put out fresh water twice a day, or set out a special type-bowl that prevents the water from freezing. Four-legged family members should have some type of shelter to protect them from the elements.
- If your pet normally stays indoors, (or you are keeping the regular outdoor ones inside during extremely cold times), be sure to watch the temperature. They can get frostbite on the ears, tails and paws if left out too long.
- Do not let your cat or dog ingest anti-freeze from where your car is sitting. It tastes sweet, and a small amount can cause severe kidney damage, or even death. If you should spill some, be sure to soak it up immediately.
- Honk the horn of your car before you start it to ensure that a cat isn’t napping in a warm spot under the hood.
- Check paws of your dog when walking to be sure that ice isn’t building up between the toes, or that salt from the roads isn’t irritating the skin.
- When decorating for the holidays, keep ornaments out of the reach of your pets. Also, keep in mind there are certain plants that can be toxic if ingested.
Our best friends count on us to keep them safe and warm. They repay us with their unconditional love.
Accidents and disasters such as storms or fires can, and usually do, happen without much warning. Most of us have some sort of action plan made up, at least in our heads, of what to do in such situations. Things such as escape routes, locations of first aid kits, safety areas in storms, etc. But how many of us who own animals or pets have really thought about what to do concerning them during these times?
Before a disaster hits, a list of qualified animal rescuers should be developed to serve as first responders. Only trained disaster personnel experienced in animal behavior should attempt to rescue animals, in this case, dogs. Untrained volunteers should contact the designated animal control officer for assistance. Some helpful tips for animal (dog) rescues:
- Pets should be evacuated with their owners, if possible.
- Always use extreme caution when approaching animals.
- Attempts to capture distressed animals can be dangerous.
- Some dogs may show aggressive behavior in desperate situations.
- If the dog is afraid or in pain, he may show warning signs: ears up, hair on back standing up, barking and showing teeth.
- Sometimes it is appropriate to use sedation.
- Put something between you and the dog, such as a trash can lid.
- Dog repellent may be used.
- Wear appropriate bite-resistant gloves.
- Maintain a first aid kit, properly equipped.
- Carry flashlights to search for abandoned dogs.
We thank all the dedicated animal rescuers for their efforts in disastrous times.
If you have to handle birds that may have been infected with the bird flu, it is important for you to protect yourself. Wearing gloves is the best way to prevent any contamination through the skin. Nitrile gloves are very sturdy and are good for various uses. Neoprene gloves are also protective against chemicals and animal fats. Both gloves are cut resistant and puncture resistant and approved by the USDA for food handling. Remember that it is only in the handling of birds that the flu is dangerous, cooked chicken and other fowl is safe to handle and eat.
There is also evidence that the flu can be passed by germs getting into the eye area. You can prevent this by wearing chemical goggles or other well covering safety glasses to protect your eyes.
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