Common Hazards to Look for When Walking Your Dog
If you are a dog owner, part of the responsibility of caring for your furry pet is taking it on walks. Dog walks are exciting for pets and owners. However, there are some precautionary steps to take to ensure dogs are not accidently injured during a walk. If your dog suffers from any type of injury as a result of walking, contact All Friends Veterinary Hospital in East Islip, NY, to make an appointment with our Veterinarian. Here are some Pet Hazards to watch for during walks so your pet is less likely to need a visit to our Animal Hospital.
Other Animals
Before taking your dog on routine walks, it is wise to scout out a route beforehand without your pet in tow. Be sure to check out neighboring homes for the presence of dogs in yards and whether they are properly contained or tethered so that they are not a threat to your pet as it walks on past. If you notice any wildlife along your path, such as bears, raccoons, or opossums, consider changing routes.
Ice and Snow
During cooler weather, there is always the possibility of ice or snow accumulation. Make sure you bring your dog on walks along paths that have been cleared of these Pet Hazards. In addition, avoid walking your pooch along walkways where ice melts or salt had been used. These could cause burns to the pads on the bottoms of your pet's feet.
Hot Surfaces
In warmer weather, hot surfaces can also cause distress to dogs that walk upon them. Instead of walking your dog on asphalt roadways or sidewalks, opt for grassy surfaces instead. The darker a surface is, the more prone it is to heat accumulation.
If your dog is suffering from a medical difficulty caused by one of these Pet Hazards, bring it to All Friends Veterinary Hospital to be assessed by our East Islip, NY, Veterinarian. Contact our Animal Hospital today at 631-277-8700.