Learn what to do about common hazards
If you’re like most folks, you have pets. According to a recent survey, almost 90 million homes in the U.S. – which is about 68 percent of all households – have at least one. And do you want to take a guess on how much money was spent on our little friends in 2016? If you said $67 billion, you get a prize.
Since we have so many pets, love them, and spend so much money on them, it makes sense that we would want to keep them as safe as possible. And while you may have made the inside of your home pet-proof, have you done anything outside? Here are six dangers to keep in mind:
Gardening chemicals
Did you know that homeowners use way more pesticides than farmers? Many can keep your grass looking green, but some can also be harmful to your pets. Avoid anything with Disulfoton and look for products that are safer for animals, and only use them in recommended quantities.
Snakes
We certainly can see our fair share of snakes in Florida, but most of them are harmless. However, you need to be aware of the dangerous species, including copperheads, cottonmouths, coral snakes, and rattlers. One of the best ways to help ensure your yard is snake-free is by keeping it neat and tidy and not letting your grass get too high.
Heat
An invisible threat but perhaps the worst of them all, high temperatures can make your pets dehydrated quickly. If they’ll be outside for long stretches, be sure that they have access to fresh water. You should also try to create shady spots where they can relax.
Ticks
If you have a cat or dog that spends any amount of time outdoors, you need to be vigilant when it comes to ticks. These nasty little buggers carry all sorts of diseases, so it’s a good idea to use a topical ointment on your pets or a special collar. But even with those tactics, you should still check them for ticks whenever they come inside.
You
Yup, even though you love your pets, you could be inadvertently hurting them. If you host a lot of backyard barbecues or just enjoy eating outside, it’s possible your dog or cat is snagging some of your food. Certain items – like onions and garlic – are bad for both of them. Grapes and raisins can actually be toxic for dogs, and things with pits or bones are choking hazards.
Mosquitos
Everybody knows that mosquitos love munching on people, but you may not realize that our pets are also on the menu. In fact, heartworms – which can be deadly – come from mosquito bites. Keeping mosquitos out of your yard can be difficult, but one of the most effective methods is a misting system.
Our furry friends are more than just pets; they’re members of the family, and it’s up to you to make sure they’re safe when they go outside. To get more information about a mosquito misting system, just get in touch with Platinum Mosquito Protection.