Posts Tagged: Pet Toxins

Regardless of how long you’ve shared your space with a four-legged companion, you are probably well aware of their propensity to sniff out food wherever it may be.

The contents of a backpack, purse, lunchbox, craft supplies, or even e-learning supplies at home can be particularly tantalizing, and with school back in session, the opportunities for scrounging are nearly endless.

Unfortunately, these seemingly harmless items can actually pose a significant risk to our pets in the form of toxins such as certain foods, medication, and even chewing gum.

While Jack Frost may be nipping at our toes, February also brings with it the sweet scent of love in the air. We are, of course, referring to Valentine’s Day. Whether you are coupled or not, chances are there is at least one love in your life to snuggle with this Valentine’s Day: your pet. 

From kitten purrs to playful pups, your pets’ paw prints have likely made a lasting impression on your heart. For this reason, and so many others, the staff at Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital knows how heartbreaking it would be, should your sweet pet fall victim to the dangers this day can bring. 

From chocolates and flowers to candles and feasts, perils and pitfalls for pets abound come the days surrounding February 14, which is why understanding the finer points of Valentine’s Day pet safety is a must for people and their pets. 

Offering your dog or cat a delicious treat is one of the highlights of pet ownership. While it’s important not to over-indulge our pets (extra weight can lead to high blood pressure, diabetes, joint pain, and more), treats are important for training and overall enjoyment of life.

Commercial pet treats can leave much to be desired, unfortunately. Many are loaded with fillers, food colorings, preservatives, and probably too many calories. Creating your own homemade pet treats is an easy (and cheap!) way to show your pets how much you care.

Springtime is one of everyone’s favorite seasons with the blooming flowers, warmer weather, and outdoor recreation. It’s also the time for spring cleanup, lawn and garden prep, and, oh yes, pet safety. Spring pet safety may not be on your radar, but with the endless array of potential things a pet could get into, it should be. 

Since this season is something that should be enjoyable for two- and four-legged friends alike, let’s take a closer look at how you can better protect your pet. Read on for more!

Most vaping product packages have clear warnings that the product and its contents are not safe for children or pets. We are now more aware, too, of the risks to people where we once thought they were relatively harmless. Vaping poisoning remains a problem for pet owners when their pets are exposed to or ingests these nicotine substitutes.

The team at Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital want to give you the facts about vaping dangers and pets. Learn more about vape safety around pets by reading on.

Essential oils have earned their place among those that enjoy and benefit from aromatherapy. From easing nausea to decreasing anxiety, these natural, plant-derived products have been central in the lives of many generations, and now they are part of the natural cure-all trend.

While seemingly safe and advantageous for people, essential oils and pets may be a terrible combination.

When we think about pet-proofing our homes, it makes sense to put away leftover food, cover the garbage bin, and make sure your favorite slippers are out of reach. However, securing the medicine cabinet probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind, but perhaps it should be. The Pet Poison Hotline reports that nearly 50% of all the calls they receive involve human medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.

The team at Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital has the scoop on why keeping pets and medications separate is so important.

We all want the best for our pets, and of course that includes keeping them safe from potentially poisonous substances. Because so many items commonly found in our homes, gardens, and neighborhoods can pose a hazard to our pets, it’s vital that pet parents are not only educated on the potential pet toxins, but also know what to do in the event of an accidental pet poisoning.

Continue…