Three Ways to Love Your Dog and Keep Him Safe from Danger

Earlier this week, a family's pet dog was eaten by a giant python snake (source). Granted, that is a very extreme case of a family pet being in danger. However, all dog owners want to keep their canine companion safe from danger. Here are three easy things to do to help keep your dog safe and protect him from the dangers that surround him, whether it be poisons, getting lost or even a fire at home!

#1 Get your dog tagged or microchipped...or better yet, both! Dogs get lost all the time, and besides the inherent dangers of being lost (cars, dog fights, poachers, etc.), your dog could end up in the pound.

Any new dog owner should immediately purchase a snug-fitting dog collar from a pet shop with a pet ID tag with the name of the dog, and the dog's owner's contact information (address and phone number).

It is also a very good idea to get your dog microchipped. This involves inserting a tiny microchip under your dog's fur that includes your contact information. If your dog ever gets lost and is found by the pound or local humane society, they can scan your dog and find the microchip. Many pets have been returned to their owners this way. My neighbor lost their dog and got him back the next day when the local humane society called them using the contact information embedded in the microchip.

#2 Keep poisonous materials out of the reach of your dog. This includes human ingredients like chocolate (very bad for dogs!) and poisonous house plants. There are numerous poisonous plants that can make your dog very sick, or even kill him. These poisonous plants include Hydrangeas and some ivies. You can find a complete list online at the UExplore website (source).

#3 Get your dog vaccinated! Vaccinations are just as good for dogs as they are for humans. Dogs are susceptible to many diseases and illnesses, and vaccines can keep these sicknesses at bay and keep your dog healthy and happy. Vaccinations may cost quite a bit up front, so you might want to check out pet insurance. Regardless, you should view pet vaccinations as a good investment. The cost of a vaccination is far cheaper than the cost of surgery or veterinarian care.

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