Common Household Dangers for Pets

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Many common household items can pose a threat to our animal companions—even some items specifically meant for pets could cause health problems.

To protect your pet, simply use common sense and take the same precautions you would with a child.

Although rodent poisons and insecticides are the most common sources of companion animal poisoning, the following list of less common, but potentially toxic, agents should be avoided if at all possible.

Dangers just outside your door

• Antifreeze that contains ethylene glycol has a sweet taste that attracts animals but is deadly if consumed in even small quantities; one teaspoon can kill a seven-pound cat. The HSUS recommends pet owners use a safe antifreeze in their vehicles. Look for antifreeze that contains propylene glycol, which is safe for animals if ingested in small amounts. Ethylene glycol can also be found in common household products like snow globes, so be sure to keep these things out the reach of animals.
• Cocoa mulch contains ingredients that can be deadly to pets if ingested. The mulch, sold in garden supply stores, has a chocolate scent that is appetizing to some animals.
• Chemicals used on lawns and gardens, such as fertilizer and plant food, can be easily accessible and fatal to a pet allowed in the yard unsupervised.
• De-icing salts used to melt snow and ice are paw irritants that can be poisonous if licked off. Paws should be washed and dried as soon as the animal comes in from the snow. Other options include doggie boots with Velcro straps to protect Fido's feet, and making cats indoor pets.
• Cans and garbage can pose a danger when cats or smaller dogs attempt to lick food from a disposed can, sometimes getting their head caught inside the can. To be sure this doesn't happen, squeeze the open end of the can closed before disposing.
• Traps and poisons Pest control companies frequently use glue traps, live traps and poisons to kill rodents. Even if you would never use such methods to eliminate rodents, your neighbor might. Dogs and cats can be poisoned if they eat a rodent who has been killed by poison (called secondary poisoning).

Threats inside the house

• Cedar and other soft wood shavings, including pine, emit fumes that may be dangerous to small mammals like hamsters and gerbils.
• Insect control products, such as the insecticides used in many over-the-counter flea and tick remedies, may be toxic to companion animals. Prescription flea and tick control products are much safer and more effective. Pet owners should never use any product without first consulting a veterinarian.
• Human medications, such as pain killers (including aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen), cold medicines, anti-cancer drugs, anti-depressants, vitamins and diet pills can all be toxic to animals. Keep medicine containers and tubes of ointments and creams away from pets who could chew through them, and be vigilant about finding and disposing of any dropped pills.
• Poisonous household plants, including azalea, dieffenbachia (dumb cane), lilies, mistletoe and philodendron. See our full list of poisonous plants »
• String, yarn, rubber bands and even dental floss are easy to swallow and can cause intestinal blockages or strangulation.
• Toys with movable parts—like squeaky toys or stuffed animals with plastic eyes—can pose a choking hazard to animals. Take the same precautions with pets as you would with a small child.
• Rawhide dog chews may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can infect pets and humans who come in contact with the chews. This kind of treat should be offered to a pet only with supervision, as they can pose a choking hazard as well.
• Holiday decorations and lights pose a risk to cats and dogs. Keep these items out of the reach of animals, and, if possible, confine your pet to an undecorated area while you are out of the home. Read more about holiday choking hazards in this FDA PDF »
• Chocolate is poisonous to dogs, cats and ferrets. Read more about why chocolate is dangerous to dogs in this FDA PDF »
• Fumes from nonstick cooking surfaces and self-cleaning ovens can be deadly to birds. Always be cautious when using any pump or aerosol spray around birds.
• Leftovers, such as chicken bones, might shatter and choke a cat or dog. Human foods to keep away from pets include onions and onion powder; alcoholic beverages; yeast dough; coffee grounds and beans; salt; macadamia nuts; tomato, potato and rhubarb leaves and stems; avocados (toxic to birds, mice, rabbits, horses, cattle and dairy goats); grapes; and anything with mold growing on it. See our full list of people foods that might harm pets »

Tools for keeping your pet safe

The HSUS recommends that pet owners use all household products with caution. We also recommend that you put together a pet first aid kit (for dogs and cats) and have a manual readily available.

If all of your precautions fail, and you believe that your pet has been poisoned, contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary service immediately. Signs of poisoning include listlessness, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, lack of coordination and fever.

You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 888-426-4435 for a fee of $65 per case. If you call the hotline, be prepared to provide the name of the poison your animal was exposed to; the amount and how long ago; the species, breed, age, sex and weight of your pet; and the symptoms your pet is displaying. You'll also be asked to provide your name, address, phone number and credit card information.

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Animals hit the podium in New York Pet Fashion Show

From birds to dogs, animals from around the country gathered at the Hotel Pennsylvania for the 11th edition of the New York Pet Fashion Show at Fashion Week in New York.

1. Rule New York Pet Fashion Show Number: You only have one entry, so you better work.

 

This is not a hoax Paris contradanza track. This is the New York Pet Fashion Show - the most revered of all pet fashion shows - in fact the only fashion show for pets that matters in the world. You think we're just going to walk through the door? DO NOT. Want to turn your head? You better sit your ass in a shopping plush seat, engages in the best of velvet and gold, and beat upon that crown. You are a queen among queens. And you are there.

2. New York Pet Fashion Show no room for nerves to leave the elevator

Eric Thayer / Reuters

Of course, the ribs are high. This is the fashion of New York hotter. But you have in your game at any time. Once the elevator doors open, that is.

3. The proper context is always essential for the perfect pose.

 

Guess What? This dog has its own crazy throne. You want people to take you seriously? It is best not to walk on a red carpet and expect people to just have a throne for you is. Bring your own royal seat and then work.

4. Essentially various modes are required.

instagram.com

How do we know how fabulous every dog ​​is if man is not so fabulously dressed?

5. Everyone is free and should be treated as such.

AP Photo / John Minchillo

It is good to refer to any and all models that you find as "Her Royal Highness" and any lower than what is considered offensive name.

6. Two is always better than one.

Look, a dog with a coat and tall hat with sequins is beautiful. But two dogs in a small jacket and sequined hat? Perfection.

7. Frenemies are real.

BuzzFeed

Of course, they smile. They are looking at each other in the face. They're like "Hey, look at us, we look at how we get along." But basically, these two are channeling some fierce contempt Naomi-model Tyra. And we live for this.

8. The best cars to enforce.

BuzzFeed

He looking your best is not enough. A couture dress fantasy only get you so far. But these two know how to demand attention: Sit in a luxury car and surround yourself with flashing lights. BOOM. You are now the center of attention.

9. And so does the most beautiful hairstyles.

Eric Thayer / Reuters

Nobody is going to turn his head to a dog with a bare noggin. Slap some feathers and bows on the scalp, if you attract the cameras, honey.

10. The crowns are number one accessory.

 

Yes, of course, we are all looking for a good plug here and there. But nothing says, "Look at me I'm a dog fashion show .." As a crown of jewels.

Corona Tip 1: The operator of a crown should always keep your head above shoulders, to ensure that all problems can be seen in his glory.

 

Corona Rule 2: A dog wearing a crown should consider those looking in it is worth looking over his crowned head.

Eric Thayer / Reuters

Corona Tip 3: A crown allows the user to do whatever the hell he wants, because he wears the crown.

Eric Thayer / Reuters

 

How Officials Can Help Community Cats

Tips for local lawmakers and town officials dealing with stray, feral and free-roaming cats

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Have you been hearing from citizens who don’t want cats on their property?

Are you looking for a way to modify ordinances so that trap-neuter-return programs are allowed?

You're not alone. More and more municipalities are seeking effective strategies to manage community (feral and stray) cats and owned cats whose owners let them outside.

Community cat management is a complex and emotional issue, to say the least. But we’re here to help!

Get the facts about community cats

There is a large amount of conflicting and confusing data out there. Depending on the source, feral and stray cat populations vary, as do their effects on wildlife and public health.

First, check out our Managing Community Cats: A Guide for Municipal Leaders, which you can download for free. Published in 2015 and endorsed by the International City/County Management Association, this guide is designed to help communities find long-lasting, nonlethal solutions to conflicts involving community (feral and stray) cats.

Here are some additional basic fact sheets on a variety of relevant topics.

• Community Cats and Rabies [PDF]
• Community Cats and Public Health [PDF]
• An Overview of Caring for Community Cats [PDF]
• How to Protect Community Cats from Disasters

Learn what methods of helping community cats are available

Many strategies over the years have been used to reduce the number of community cats. You may already be familiar with some. Watch our short video that shows what's been done and what you can do to effectively manage these cats in your community. Need more information? Start with the fact sheets listed above.

Work with a local group

If you're lucky, there is an organization in your area that helps community cats: Check out our list. Remember that collaboration is essential if a local community cat management plan is to be successful.

Watch our video on the feral cat crisis and the Trap-Neuter-Return solution »

Seek funding from a foundation

Foundations are another possible partner. They are looking for collaborative efforts to fund, and a community cat management program may be very attractive.

Help keep neighborhoods peaceful

Outdoor cats can often be the cause of neighborhood disputes, from arguments about a neighbor’s cat who stalks the birdfeeder next door to a colony of feral cats living in a yard. For people who are looking for ways to keep cats off their property or to resolve nuisance complaints, we suggest the following resources:

• Keeping Cats out of Gardens and Yards, by Neighborhood Cats
• Community Cats and Wildlife [PDF]
• Peaceable Backyard Kingdom: Protecting Pets and Wildlife
• Managing Community Cats: A Municipal Leaders Guide

Decide whether new or revised laws or ordinances are necessary

When addressing issues with community cats, many municipalities and advocates think they need to make changes in ordinances and laws. While these can be helpful, and in some cases necessary, there are many things you can do before resorting to legislation.

First, find out if what you want to do—for instance, start a TNR program—is already allowed under current law or ordinances. If it is, then try out the program, leaving legislation for further down the road if you encounter problems.

If current regulations prohibit programs or actions that you want to try, propose small, specific changes rather than a total overhaul of your ordinances or laws. You’ll find small changes easier to pass, and you’ll avoid a common pitfall: implementing too many changes with many unforeseen consequences. For help with ordinances and law changes, please email us at cats@humanesociety.org.

Let The HSUS help you

The HSUS has many resources. If there's something you need that isn't available, don't hesitate to send us an email at cats@humanesociety.org. Working together, we can save money and lives and make communities safer and healthier for all citizens.

Another good resource is your HSUS state director. Our state directors can help with ordinances and law changes, and they can put you in touch with others in your state who have struggled with community cat issues and found solutions that may work in your community.

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Coyotes, Pets and Community Cats

What you need to know about protecting your pets and community cats from coyotes

Adapted from the book Wild Neighbors

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Many people assume that coyotes don't live in suburban or urban neighborhoods because they don't see them. But that assumption can be dangerous for your animal companions.

Coyotes typically hunt small mammals such as mice, voles, and rabbits. If given the opportunity, they will also make a meal of a cat, tame or feral.

Dogs, especially smaller breeds, are also at risk, although attacks on them are more rare.

The best way to protect your pets is to let them outside only when you are with them—especially at night—and to keep pet food and water inside.

Protecting your pet cat

Coyotes aren't the only threat cats face when they go outside—there are far greater dangers. When you allow your cat to roam freely outdoors, even for short periods of time, you expose her to perils such as cars, dogs, diseases, coyotes, poisons, and cruel people. If you want your cat to be safe, keep her indoors.

Some people let their cats outside because they mistakenly believe it's cruel to keep cats indoors. The truth is that cats who are protected from the dangers outside live longer, happier lives. (You'll be helping your neighboring wildlife stay safer and happier as well.) We've got guidelines to help you keep your indoor cat happy.

Protecting feral cat colonies

People who feed feral cats are often concerned that coyotes might prey on the cats. These concerns are well founded, as coyotes will be attracted to both the outdoor pet food and the cats themselves as prey. Here are some general suggestions for keeping such cats safer:

• Feed cats only during the day and at a set time—and pick up any leftovers immediately
• Provide escape routes for cats
• In treeless or open areas, erect "cat posts"—long pieces of wood (four inches by four inches or corner posts) that stand out of the ground at least ten to twelve feet. These can be climbed by cats but not by coyotes
• Elevate feeding stations beyond coyotes’—but not the cats’—reach
• Discourage/harass coyotes seen on the property. Go after them aggressively, using the techniques described in our coyote hazing guidelines. Making them feel uncomfortable will encourage them to stay out of the area.

Protecting dogs

Dogs (especially small dogs) are also vulnerable to coyote confrontations. These incidents generally involve coyotes who are accustomed or habituated to people (usually due to wildlife feeding), or coyotes who are protecting their territory and pups (usually during breeding season). 

Dogs (especially small dogs) should not be left outside unattended, should never be chained and should always be kept on a leash in public areas. It is important to never let your dog interact or play with a coyote. Pet food and water should be kept indoors to avoid attracting coyotes to your yard.

Although “attacks” on larger dogs are rarer, coyotes will sometimes go after a large dog when they feel that their territory is threatened. This generally occurs during the coyote breeding season, which takes place from January through March. During this time, it is especially important not to let dogs outside unattended and to keep them on leashes when in public areas.

Fencing can be used to keep coyotes out of residential yards, but it must be at least six feet tall and should extend underground at least six inches or be parallel to the ground at least 12 inches and secured with landscaping staples.  Devices such as the "coyote roller,” which “rolls off” coyotes that try to scramble over the fence, can enhance the effectiveness of a fence. Do-it-yourself options also include adding PVC piping or chicken wire to the top of your fence to prevent coyotes from jumping over, and retrofitting a mesh apron to the bottom of the fence (extending at least 12 inches out and secured with landscaping staples) to keep coyotes from digging under.

Resources

» Coyote Management and Coexistence Plan (PDF)
» Preventing Coyote Conflicts Fact Sheet (PDF)
» Schedule a Coyote Hazing Training workshop in your community (PDF)
» Living with Wild Neighbors in Urban and Suburban Communities: A Guide for Local Leaders (gives elected officials and other decision-makers the tools to implement long-lasting, nonlethal solutions to community wildlife conflicts)
» Project Coyote: promoting an educated coexistence between people and coyotes

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Local Animal Care Organizations Receive ‘Pets for Life’ Mentorship Grant

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Grant aimed to help organizations provide resources for pets in under-served communities

Five local animal care organizations from around the country have been selected to receive the Pets for Life Mentorship program grant. Provided by The Humane Society of the United States and PetSmart Charities® and totaling $250,000, the grant will allow the recipients to  provide direct care, services, and information to people and pets in under-served areas of their communities. An estimated 23 million pets live in poverty in this country and lack access to critical veterinary care and wellness resources. Spay and neuter rates average less than 20 percent in under-served communities. This partnership between The HSUS and PetSmart Charities® is working to change that statistic.

The grant includes $50,000 to provide general wellness care, spay/neuter services, funds to travel to an HSUS PFL city for hands on training, and ongoing support and guidance from the PFL team to ensure long term success and sustainability.

Amanda Arrington, director of the PFL program at The HSUS said: “Pets for Life takes resources to communities that are not being reached by traditional approaches. The HSUS is pleased to partner with these local organizations and PetSmart Charities® to fill the gaps in services and information that currently exist by bringing critical pet care to people and pets in under-served areas.”

Jan Wilkins, executive director of PetSmart Charities® said: “We’re proud to work with The HSUS and these five very deserving animal welfare organizations to help make a difference in their communities. The Pets for Life Mentorship program is a perfect example of our dedication to building awareness, engaging communities, and creating and funding lifesaving programs for pets.”

The following animal care organizations received the grant from and PetSmart Charities® and training and mentorship from The HSUS:

• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Central Oklahoma Humane Society
• Reno, Nevada: Nevada Humane Society
• Santa Fe, New Mexico: Santa Fe Animal Shelter and Humane Society
• Toledo, Ohio: Humane Ohio
• Washington, District of Columbia: Washington Humane Society

Without access to affordable veterinary care, many people do not spay or neuter their pets or provide general wellness care. The central component of the PFL model is direct community outreach and the philosophy of focusing on humans along with their companion pets. Through this approach, organizations can build strong relationships and trust within a segment of the pet-owning population that has largely gone untouched by animal service providers before.

PFL operates direct care programs in Atlanta, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Los Angeles in addition to the mentorship partnership with PetSmart Charities®. The program also offers a free community outreach toolkit, funded by PetSmart Charities, for any organization to use. For more information on the program, click here.

Media Contact: Cheylin Parker; 240-599-6848, cparker@humanesociety.org

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