Paws for concern: Pet hazards lurking in your home

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Published Date 8/16/2024

In the world of dog ownership, love knows no bounds. Homeowners even design kitchen cabinets to include a pet station, complete with a cabinet for food, treats, leashes, and bowls that slide out in drawers for their precious pooches.

From plush beds to gourmet treats, devoted pet parents spare no expense in pampering their furry companions, as reported by Realtor’s Claudine Zap. Zap warns that amid this lavish care, a silent threat lurks in every home, often unnoticed until it's too late, citing Dr. Beth Turner, a seasoned veterinarian from Colorado. Together they shed light on these hidden dangers, offering a wake-up call to dog lovers everywhere.

With more than two decades of experience in both shelter volunteering and private practice, Dr. Turner has witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of household hazards on our canine friends. Her mission is to educate pet owners about the everyday items that could spell disaster for their beloved dogs — shockingly commonplace things like a vase of beautiful flowers or a comfortable recliner where you unwind after a long day. Even that innocuous bag of chips could pose a serious threat to your four-legged friend.

Human medications top the list of hazardous items, but the bottom line is — what cures us could kill our pets, making it crucial to keep all pills, ointments, and syrups well out of paw's reach. Zap says equally dangerous are certain human foods that dogs find irresistible, like garlic, onions, and chocolate. Did you know the ingestion of grapes and raisins, which seemingly harmless, can lead to acute kidney failure in pets? Even a sip of your evening cocktail could spell trouble, as alcohol affects dogs much more severely than humans.

But wait. There’s more. Xylitol, a common sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products and especially in chewing gum, can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs. Bones, often thought of as a classic dog treat, can splinter and cause internal injuries or blockages.

Make sure household chemicals such as insecticides, rodenticides, antifreeze, fertilizers, and cleaning products are kept far away from your dog or cat, as all pose significant risks if ingested. Even batteries, if chewed, can cause severe chemical burns.

Hard to believe that many houseplants, prized for their beauty, harbor toxins that can be harmful or even fatal to dogs. So it’s wise for for pet owners to research and identify which plants are safe to keep in a dog-friendly home.

Plastic bags and containers can lead to suffocation if a curious pup gets their head stuck inside, so cut up empty snack bags before disposal and keep all such items well out of reach.

Smaller breeds are more prone to getting trapped in tight spaces or injured from jumping off furniture. Larger dogs, with their height advantage, can reach countertops and stovetops, potentially causing fires or ingesting harmful items. And certain “always hungry” breeds, such beagles, boxers, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, pugs, rottweilers, and Saint Bernards are more prone to risky behaviors due to their insatiable appetites, according to Turner.

Puppies, regardless of breed, require extra vigilance as their curiosity and penchant for chewing make them especially vulnerable to household dangers.

So, how can pet owners create a safer environment? Zap says Dr. Turner offers several practical tips, including securing all cleaning products and chemicals in elevated, dog-proof cabinets, and being mindful of items left within reach, including food, medications, small objects, and even socks. When taking medication, do so over a sink or open drawer to prevent dropped pills from becoming accessible to pets.

Lock all cabinets, doors (especially bathrooms), and trash bins. Keep guest rooms closed, as suitcases often contain items dangerous to curious canines. For those with yards, regular checks for hazards like mushrooms, fence openings, or harmful objects are essential.

Zap says that in today's tech-savvy world, it’s a great idea to use cameras to monitor dogs throughout the day, providing an extra layer of security when you're away from home.

Realtor, TBWS

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