Keeping your pet safe in the heat

Summer is here and your pet will want to outdoors more than ever.  Simple steps must be taken to ensure that your best friends are safe and out of harms way.

Outdoor play areas...
Your yard should be pet-proofed much as you child-proof your home.  Protect your pet from trash cans, gardening equipment, chemicals or other items and products that could harm your pet if he investigated or chewed on them.

Plenty of shade and fresh water...
There should be ample shade and fresh water available to your pet.  A warm, dry shelter is necessary for when the weather suddenly turns cool and heavy rain can often blow in quickly.

Fencing...
Your yard does not have to be fenced, but if your pet will be let off leash, it is advisable.  Even the most well-behaved pooch can be lured away in pursuit of a squirrel, another dog, or even people. 

The type of fencing often depends on the type of pet you have.  There are special outdoor enclosures and fences for cats with netting at the top to prevent their escape.  Chain-link fences come in various heights as some dogs are known to jump even a 6-foot fence.  Some dogs are known to be adept at climbing a chain-link fence! 

Underground fencing products are also available.  Invisible Fence Brand™ has been keeping pets safe for over 35 years.  A supporter of the RVSPCA, Invisible Fence Brand™ has the knowledge and expertise to give pet owners the products, technology and advice necessary to provide a total peace of mind while keeping pets safe at home.  As an added bonus, a discount is offered to anyone adopting a pet from the RVSPCA! 

Any enclosure should be regularly surveyed for gaps or inconsistencies that might allow your pet to escape. 

Plants...
Many common household and outdoor plants are toxic to both cats and dogs.  Some common ones include azalea, rhododendron, yew and oleander bushes.  A more comprehensive list can be found by searching the ASPCA website.

It is possible to maintain a garden with a pet in the yard.  Appropriate training, supervision and containment are recommended to prevent destruction to a garden, and to keep your pet safe.