Schulze Law

Category: Pets

  • 10 Tips For Flying With Pets!

    10 Tips For Flying With Pets!

    Traveling can be both an exciting and a stressful adventure. Add in traveling with a pet and you have another set of factors to take into consideration. As advocates for people and animals alike at Schulze Law, we want to provide you with the best information to keep you and your pets as safe as possible. When it comes to traveling with pets, this may evoke images of tangled leashes, sharp clawing, barks and meows, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be that way. Stress-free (or less stress) animal travel is possible, but it does take thoughtful preparation, research and a some patience.

    The statistics show that flying with pets is common. Travel.org reports over two million pets and other live animals are transported by air every year in the United States. According to a study by AAA and Best Western International, more than half of U.S. pet owners take their cats and dogs with them when they travel.

    The fact that flying with pets is popular, coupled with the recent news of the unfortunate event regarding a sweet French Bulldog on an American Airlines flight, has inspired us to help provide you with helpful tips in the event that pet travel is in your future. In fact, the harrowing statistic according to data from The Department of Transportation is that 24 pets died flying with U.S. carriers last year. 18 were on United flights.

    The reality is there are some dangers, concerns and nuances involved in flying with pets. Can some animals travel safely, either in the cabin or the belly of an aircraft? Sure! But it’s a little more complex issue than many pet owners realize, so a little research and due diligence can be essential in keeping your pet as safe as you can.

    First, please consider whether or not your pet should not be flying at all — ever. The American Humane Association advises: “As a general rule, puppies and kittens, sick animals, animals in heat and frail or pregnant animals should not travel by air.” Furthermore, the ASPCA urges pet owners to think twice about flying their pets on commercial airlines, especially if they plan on checking them in as cargo.

    In addition to compliance with federal regulations and airline company policy, if you’re looking to fly the skies with your canine companion or feline friend and have determined your pet is a good candidate, we’ve got tips to make the trip as smooth as possible.

    If you have any questions regarding the safety of you or your pet while flying, please contact Schulze Law today. Ok, let’s take to skies!

    1. VISIT THE VETERINARIAN

    Make an appointment with your pet’s veterinarian for a check-up and make sure all vaccinations are up to date. Obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian dated within 10 days of departure. For travel outside the continental United States, additional planning and health care requirements may be needed.

    1. CABIN, CARGO, CHECKED?

    The size of your pet will determine the way it flies. If your animal can fit in a carrier under the seat, then it can fly in the cabin for a fee (usually about $100 or $125). If not, you have to check the animal as baggage (when that’s allowed). The fees vary and again, you need to give the airline advance notice and check for specific rules. You may have to consider shipping your pet as air cargo if the other options aren’t available to you. This can be expensive and comes along with the restrictions and drawbacks of checking your pet as baggage. It can be considered the least safe method of pet air transportation as well. Cabin, cargo and checked all come with lots of restrictions and rules to take into account.

    1. BOOK EARLY AND FLY DIRECT

    Most airlines only allow one or two dogs on each flight, so it’s extremely important to book your dog’s ticket ASAP. Don’t buy your ticket until you call the airline and make sure there is a “seat” available for your dog on the flight. When you have confirmed availability for both you and your pet, then proceed to reserve both your seats on the same ticket. Book a non-stop, direct flight whenever you can and try to fly on a weekday when airports are typically less crazy.

    1. PET CARRIER AND GEAR

    Buy a carrier that fits your special pet. Soft-sided carriers are best for carry-on and tend to fit better under the seat, but they’re only permitted in the cabin only. If your pet will be traveling in the cargo hold, buy a hard plastic carrier with holes for ventilation instead. Carriers must be big enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If the carrier does not allow them to do this, the airline will refuse transport. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and an identification tag. Breakaway collars are best for cats. The collar should also include destination information in case your pet decides to pull an escape artist move.

    1. TAKE A PRACTICE RUN

    Animals who are not accustomed to travel will experience more stress than their other seasoned friends. Think of taking a house cat onto the streets or a suburban dog into the city. You can help your pet out by putting them in their carrier as often as possible for trips around town during the weeks leading up to the main event.

    1. FOOD AND BEVERAGES

    Food and flying isn’t the best combo for your pet. In fact, try to feed them at least four hours in advance from the flight and cut the water back a few hours prior as well. This will help avoid accidents on the flight, and will keep your pet comfy. The nerves might upset their stomach anyway. If they are in the cabin, try to gauge the amount of water to give in order to prevent dehydration but doesn’t cause an accident.

    1. GET THERE EARLY

    Running late for a flight is an extremely stressful situation for anyone. Add in a pet and that’s a recipe for disaster. Arrive at the airport early, but not too early, and be sure to have your dog’s health certificate easily accessible. You can’t check your pet in more than four hours before the flight. Most airlines recommend arriving two hours before your flight when traveling with a pet. Passengers with pets must check-in at the counter!

    1. DON’T POP AN ANTI-ANXIETY

    Well, we won’t judge what you do;) but hold off on the pet valium. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, in most cases, “dogs should not be given sedatives or tranquilizers prior to flying because they can create respiratory and cardiovascular problems as the dog is exposed to increased altitude pressures. They can also alter the animal’s natural ability to balance and maintain equilibrium, which can be dangerous when the carrier is moved. While sedation is generally not advised, the decision on whether or not to prescribe a tranquilizer for your pet should be made by your veterinarian. If he or she decides that tranquilizers are medically necessary for the trip, indicate the name of the drug taken and the dosage on the dog’s carrier.”

    1. MAKE SURE YOU PACKED A PET SUITCASE

    According to DogJaunt.com, don’t forget to pack these items:

    • Health certificate and medical records
    • Contact information for your vet and an emergency contact at your destination
    • Comb, brush, and flea control products
    • Any medications
    • Spare collar with id tag
    • Pet wipes or grooming products
    • Paper towels and stain remover
    • Enough food and treats for the entire trip
    • Plenty of bottled water
    • Food and water dishes
    • Leash and poop bags
    • Your dog’s favorite toy and blanket
    1. TAKE A LOOOOOOOONG WALK AND HAVE FUN!

    Once you’ve arrived safely, take a walk and enjoy the new sites and sounds. Let the most fun part of the adventure begin!

    See below for a more in depth look at pet travel and the rules and regulations related to individual carriers. And remember to contact Schulze Law with any questions. We probably love your pet almost as much as you do:).

    Federal and state governments impose restrictions on transporting live animals. Please keep in mind that each airline establishes its own company policy and has different rules and regulations for the proper handling of the animals they transport. Some allow small dogs to travel in the aircraft cabin as part of your carry-on luggage allowance, while others will only allow pets to travel in the cargo area. The fees can vary from nothing at all to more than $500. As a shipper or owner you also have a responsibility to take the necessary precautions to ensure the well being of the animal you ship.

    Here are links to more information from the largest domestic carriers:

    Resources:

    http://www.travel.org/

    https://northeast.aaa.com

    https://www.aspca.org/

    https://www.nolo.com/

  • Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals. What Are The Laws?

    Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals. What Are The Laws?

    There are countless reasons dogs are known as man’s best friend. Here at Schulze Law we are animal lovers with a huge sweet spot for our beloved team mascot, Brady! Dogs are truly a source of loyalty, friendship and support to their human owner. They are like family and every animal enthusiast understands the special bond, deep connection and unconditional love that exists between a pet and their human. To the animal lovers of the world, it is a relationship we can’t imagine life without.

    Pets bring so much happiness and joy into our lives. They make us smile and laugh, comfort us when we’re sad or sick, and are always there for us no matter what. All these traits and characteristics make dogs the perfect companion and friend. These same attributes also make dogs excellent service and emotional support animals.

    Many people are aware that dogs have a history of providing service to those with sight issues or blindness, and that more and more dogs are being trained to provide support to those suffering from health conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. Dogs are specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, (such as post-traumatic stress disorder), seizure disorder, mobility impairment, and diabetes. But what many people may not realize is just how many services therapy and companion dogs are providing for people with various kinds of disabilities, including both physical and mental in nature.

    According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the definition of a Service Animal is any dog which is specifically trained to perform tasks for a disabled individual that they would otherwise have difficulty completing on their own due to disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Many people are surprised to learn there are over a dozen different specializations for Service Dogs. There are Diabetic Alert Dogs, Severe Allergy Alert dogs, Visual Assistance Dogs, Hearing Dogs for the Deaf, Wheelchair Assistance Dogs, Psychiatric Service Dogs, Brace/Mobility Support Dogs, Medical Alert Dogs, Seizure Assistance Dogs and more (https://www.servicedogregistration.org). One thing is clear, dogs are capable of so much!

    Although people love their service dogs and often consider them family members, these animals have special rights in the eyes of the government that extend beyond the nature of a pet. We’re taking a closer look at service and emotional support animals and the laws surrounding them.

    A service animal is protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act and is a dog that fundamentally aids in a disabled person’s daily life. This may include activities such as movement (walking or wheelchair guidance), reminding someone with a mental disability to take his or her medication, navigation for people who are hearing- and visually impaired, calm an individual who suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, even dial 911 in the event of an emergency and alerting someone for help by barking when an owner has a seizure.

    Similarly, there are emotional support animals or comfort animals that are beneficial in helping people function in their day to day living.  While Emotional Support Animals or Comfort Animals are often used as part of a medical treatment plan as therapy animals, they are not considered service animals under the ADA. These support animals provide affection, companionship, relieve loneliness, and sometimes help with conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder/mood disorder, panic attacks, fear/phobias, and other psychological and emotional conditions, but do not have special training to perform tasks that assist people with disabilities. An emotional support dog is not required to perform any specific tasks for a disability like service dogs are. Rather they are meant for emotional stability and unconditional love.

    Although service dogs and emotional support animals have similarities, there are some difference and variances in the legalities. For example, according to Mass.gov, under federal and state law, only dogs (and in some cases miniature horses) are recognized as service animals that can accompany people with disabilities in public places. But, there are no restrictions on the species that can be an assistance animal in housing. Therefore, while an animal other than a dog, such as a cat, is not recognized as a service animal, it may still serve as an assistance to a person with a disability in the housing context. Neither service dogs or assistance animals may be restricted by breed, size, or weight.  Generally, municipal ordinances that prohibit specific breeds of dogs may not be applied to service dogs or assistance animals. Similarly, while a housing provider may restrict the breed, size, or type of pet a resident may keep in his or her home, exceptions must be made when the animal is needed due to a disability.

    Information and Laws on Service Dogs

    According to Mass.gov, service dogs are protected under federal law. The Federal law allows for a broader definition of service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Massachusetts Service Animal Law limits the definition of service animal to a dog that accompanies an individual with a sensory and or physical disability. Massachusetts law is more limited than the ADA, but public accommodations in Massachusetts must comply with both state and federal law. Both laws obligate state and local governments and any places that are open to the public to permit service animals to accompany people with disabilities anywhere members of the public can go.

    Identification: Service dogs are commonly identified by wearing a service dog vest or tag, letting the public know that it is a service dog. This helps minimize their handlers having to explain everywhere that they go that their dog is a service dog.

    Rules and Public Knowledge: You are NOT allowed to be asked by an owner, manager, or other representative of a business what your disability is that allows you to have a service dog. That information is private and you do not have to disclose it to anyone if you are asked. The only information that may be asked is if it is a service dog, and what tasks the service dog is trained to perform for you. The ADA and Massachusetts law prohibit public accommodations from charging a special admission fee or requiring you to pay any other extra cost to have your service animal with you. Under the ADA, your service animal can be excluded from a public accommodation if it poses a direct threat to health and safety.

    Housing: Both the federal Fair Housing Act and Massachusetts law prohibit discrimination in rental housing accommodations against those who use service animals. The law gives the right to live with service dog regardless of any building or residences with a no pet policy. A service dog is not considered a pet and is required for daily life functions and activities. Building managers or landlords may not refuse your service dog and they may not require you to submit any pet deposits or fees for your service dog. In Massachusetts, the housing discrimination law specifically references only dog guides used by people who are blind or deaf. However, the law also requires landlords and other housing entities to make reasonable accommodations to allow those with disabilities to use housing premises. Similarly, hotels fall under the same policy as well. They are not permitted to deny access to you or your service dog and may not charge any extra fees or collect any deposits.

    Flying: ADA law also allows service dogs on airplanes when individuals with service dogs are traveling and they do not have to pay an extra fee to have their service dog by their side.

    Information and Laws on Emotional Support Dogs

    According to The U.S Dog Registry, Under the Fair Housing Amendments Act (FHAA) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), an individual who meets the proper criteria is entitled to an emotional support dog to assist them with their life. The FHAA protects individuals by allowing their emotional support dog to live with them (even when there are no pet policies in place). The ACAA protects individuals by allowing the emotional support dog to fly with them in the cabin of an airplane (without having to pay any additional fees). Any dog can be an emotional support dog, and emotional support dogs do not have to be professionally-trained.

    Emotional Support Animals are not considered service animals under the ADA or the Massachusetts law regarding service animals. This means a ESAs are not permitted to go anywhere the public can go under the definition of “service animal.” However, places that are open to the public and covered under these laws still have an obligation to consider modifying their policies when necessary to ensure equal access to a person with a disability

    Medical Recommendation: It is required to have a letter from a doctor or mental health professional recommending an emotional support dog for the condition. You may be asked to present this letter by airline staff when flying or by your landlord when renting a home.

    Identification: Emotional support dogs are often identified by wearing an emotional support dog vest or tag, letting the public know that it is an emotional support dog; otherwise, their handlers will find themselves having to explain that their dog is an emotional support dog.

    Housing: The Fair Housing Amendments Act (FHAA) gives individuals the right to live with their emotional support dog regardless of any building or residences with a no-pet policy. Building managers or landlords may not refuse your emotional support dog. You are required to have a current (within the past year) letter from a doctor or mental health professional recommending that you have an emotional support dog for your condition.

    Flying: The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) allows emotional support dogs on airplanes when individuals with emotional support dogs are traveling. A written note from a doctor or mental health professional is required by the airlines that is not more than one year old.

    Dogs and service animals are truly incredible and level of care and assistance they can provide is remarkable. Please visit the USA Service Dog Registration site for more information.

    If you have any questions regarding service dogs or emotional support animals, please contact Schulze Law. We can help you understand your rights and protect you for any unfair treatment.

    Resources:

    https://www.servicedogregistration.org/blog/types-of-service-dogs/

    https://www.ada.gov/

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  • Winter Pet Safety Tips!

    Winter Pet Safety Tips!

    Brrr…the winter and holiday season has arrived. The first snow has fallen along with plunging temps as we all gear up for another New England winter. Many of us are bracing for another winter of ice, snow and frigid temperatures. The days are shorter, holiday lights and decorations are up, and we’re brewing ourselves cups of hot tea to fight off the winter chill. Despite the cold, it’s still a truly magical and special time to spend with loved ones. Holiday parties and festivities, outdoor winter sports, cuddling under warm blankets and drinking hot chocolate in front of a fireplace are just a few of the cold weather delights. That said, the winter season brings its own set of unique safety concerns  as well. We know how to protect ourselves and people we care about but we can’t forget our furry friends this time of year either. For pet owners, winter presents a new set of challenges, especially for those living in areas with extreme seasonal changes in weather.

    Our pets are like family and every animal enthusiast understands the special bond, deep connection and unconditional love that exists between a pet and their owner. To the animal lovers of the world, it is a relationship we can’t imagine life without. They’re truly man’s best friend and we must protect and take care of them during this harsh time of year.

    Pets manage to bring so much happiness and joy into our lives. They make us smile and laugh, comfort us when we’re sad or sick, and are always there for us no matter what. We need to always be there for them in return by providing them the safety and protection they deserve. One of the signs of a responsible and skilled pet ownership is the ability and knowledge in providing safety measures and planning and preparing for unexpected emergencies.

    While unforeseen illnesses and injuries can happen at any time during the year, some are more prevalent seasonally. During a cold weather related injury, your pets will be even more dependent on you for their safety and well-being. When the weather outside is frightful, these winter pet tips show you how to keep your precious pets snug, safe, and warm. Keep reading to learn about a few potential pet problems to be mindful of this winter to protect from extreme cold and other dangers. Following these winter-proofing tips from the help of the ASPCA will help keep your pets healthy, happy and safe during the cold winter months.

    1. Paw Protection! Don’t let snow and ice be a pain in the paw! Bring a towel on long walks to clean off stinging, irritated paws. After each walk, wash and dry your pet’s feet and stomach to remove ice, salt and chemicals—and check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes. Massaging petroleum jelly or other paw protectants into paw pads before going outside can help protect from salt and chemical agents. Booties provide even more coverage and can also prevent sand and salt from getting lodged between bare toes and causing irritation.
    2. Winter Hair Styles. Your pet needs a clean, well-groomed coat to keep them properly insulated. This is especially important if they spend a lot of time outdoors. Never shave your dog or pet down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth. If your dog is long-haired, trim them to minimize the clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry their skin, and don’t neglect the hair between the toes. If your dog is short-haired, consider getting them a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly. For many dogs, this is regulation winter wear.
    3. Winter Diet and Hydration. Although pups and pets may need an extra layer in winter, make sure it comes from a coat and not a layer of fat. Unless your dog lives outdoors during the winter, they usually won’t need any additional calories during the winter chill. Cold temperatures may even bring on lazy behavior and the need for fewer calories. Be attentive to your dog’s activity level and adjust their calories accordingly. Make sure they have plenty of water to drink to help keep them well-hydrated and their skin less dry. Which brings us to…
    4. Winter Skin Care. Dogs and pets get dry, flaky skin in the winter just like humans do. Use a humidifier and provide plenty of drinking water in your home — your pet’s skin will thank you. Bathe your pet less frequently and make sure to completely dry them after baths. Brushing their coat stimulates blood circulation and can help improve the overall condition of their skin.
    5. Troublesome Toxins. Keeping walkways walkable and driveways drivable in the winter often requires the use of salt or chemical de-icers which are poisonous to pets. Try to avoid contact with de-icers when with your pet, and wipe them down with a wet towel then completely dry them off after outside play to remove any chemicals they could’ve come in contact with. Remember, if you’re putting antifreeze in your car, use a pet-friendly or propylene glycol option. Antifreeze tastes sweet and dogs (as well as some children!) will readily lick or drink it. Antifreeze is extremely toxic and just a small amount can be fatal.
    6. Snugly Shelter. Don’t let your cuddly canine sleep on a cold floor in winter. Choosing the right bedding is important to ensure your pet stays warm. Warm blankets can create a snug environment; raised beds can keep your pet off cold tiles or concrete, and heated pet beds can help keep the stiffness out of aging joints. Place your pet’s bed in a warm spot away from drafts, cold tile or uncarpeted floors, preferably in a favorite spot where they sleep every day so that the area doesn’t feel unfamiliar.
    7. Check under the hood! Animals often sleep in the wheel wells of cars during the winter months to keep warm. If you start your car and an animal is sleeping on your tire, it can be severely hurt or even killed by moving engine parts. Prevent injuries by banging loudly on your hood or honking the horn before starting your car. This will wake up the pet and give it a chance to escape before starting the car.
    8. Car safety. Never leave your pet unattended in the car, no matter what the season. Just as cars can get dangerously hot in summer, freezing cold temperatures are equally dangerous for your pet in winter. Cars can act as refrigerators that hold in the cold and cause animals to freeze to death. Leaving the car running involves additional risks, including carbon monoxide poisoning if the car is parked in a garage. Leave your pet at home when you go out to run errands.
    9. Winter Fitness Fun. If it’s not too cold out for you, your pup can get some aerobic exercise outside that will also keep them warm. Walking in wooded areas is a good way to protect them from chilly wind gusts. If it’s too cold, entice them to exercise indoors with tug-of-war, fetch, or a playdate with another pet-friend.
    10. Chilly temps. Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet, so keep your animals inside. If left outdoors, pets can freeze, become disoriented, lost, stolen, injured or killed. If it’s too cold for you to stand at the door without your coat, it’s probably too cold for your pet too, so pay attention to their behavior while they’re outdoors. If you notice your pet whining, shivering or appearing anxious, or they stop playing and seems to be looking for places to burrow, then it’s time to bring them in.
    11. Snow removal. Snow can be a lot of fun but also dangerous for your animal. Snow piled near fences offers your pet escape routes that even well trained animals often can’t resist. When you clear snow in your yard, pile it away from fences to prevent your pet from climbing over. Snow and ice often accumulate on rooftops and if the sun is out or as temperatures rise, this accumulation can slide and injure your pet. If you can’t clear the snow from the roof, keep your pet away from the roof overhang to prevent injury.
    12. Be Prepared! Winter brings extreme weather that can cause power outages. Have an emergency plan and make sure they include your pets! Have an emergency kit with enough food, water, and medication to last your pets at least five days.

    Additionally, keeping your furry family members safe during the holidays can be a difficult task. There are the ornaments, plants, presents, lights, candles and Christmas trees. Nothing can spoil good cheer like an emergency trip to the veterinary clinic. Let’s take a look at some simple steps that will allow your pets to join in the holiday fun this year, while avoiding  the animal emergency room.

    1. Decorations . Holiday decorations like tinsel and ribbons might make your home sparkle, but they can also be toxic for animals. Even pine needles from a tree can make your pet sick. If you suspect your pet has ingested something, call your vet immediately.
    2. Cute Costumes. While putting costumes on your pet may be cute and hilarious, the pet might not feel the same. Be careful not to go overboard so your pet becomes agitated.
    3. Parties. While some pets are the life of the pet party, others aren’t comfortable with all of the commotion.
    4. Food. Keep people food away from pets. If you want to share holiday treats with your pets, make or buy treats formulated just for them. For example, chocolate is toxic to animals and can even be fatal. Stick with treats that were made with animals in mind.
    5. Holiday Hazards. Make sure your pets stay out of trouble and don’t get in harm’s way.  Here are some potentially dangerous items you should watch out for — especially during the holidays:
    • Wires
    • Batteries
    • Glass or plastic ornaments
    • Candles
    • Alcoholic Drinks
    • Ribbon
    • Plants (like poinsettias, holly and mistletoe) can be toxic

    When it comes to winter preparedness, don’t forget your pets. Please seek immediate medical attention if your pet is showing signs or suffering from a cold weather related injury. Time is of the essence in these cases and can mean a life or death situation. Fast action can protect your pet and precautionary measures can prevent danger.

    Harsh winter weather brings a wide variety of concerns to responsible dog owners. Bitter cold, numbing wetness or biting winds can cause discomfort for that special pet in your life. Paying close attention to your loyal friend’s well being during the winter season will insure that you both enjoy the season to the fullest.

    Pets are protective by nature to their owner and loved ones. Responsible and capable owners must reciprocate by providing protection in return from winter related risks.

    CALL NOW: 857-300-5300 Emergency After Hours Number: 800-894-9267 XLAW1 (5291)

    Resources:
    http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/emergencies/cold/pets.html
    https://www.aspca.org/
    https://www.avma.org/
    http://pets.webmd.com/

  • Pet Fire Safety Tips

    Pet Fire Safety Tips

    Pets are like family. Every animal enthusiast understands the special bond, deep connection and unconditional love that exists between a pet and their owner. To the animal lovers of the world, it is a relationship we can’t imagine life without. Life is full of celebrations and struggles and pets are the most loyal and caring companions to go through the good times and bad times with. They’re truly man’s best friend.

    In fact, two thirds of Americans live with an animal, and according to a 2011 Harris poll, 90 percent of pet owners think of their dogs and cats as members of the family. Among pet owners, seven in 10 have a dog (69%), half have a cat (51%), one in 10 have a fish (11%), and less than one in 10 pet owners have a bird (7%) or some other type of pet (8%).

    Having an animal is extremely rewarding and beneficial. According to the CDC, pets can decrease your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and feelings of loneliness. Pets can also increase your opportunities for outdoor exercise and activities, while providing chances and openings for socialization. Studies have shown owning a pet helps with people’s overall emotional and mental well-being. Many owners feel less lonely, stressed, afraid, depressed, anti-social and much more. While the positives are tremendous, it also takes a significant amount of work, effort and awareness. While pets are loving additions to your family and home, there are many things to take into consideration in order to manage them well. All pets require time, money, and love along with the specific needs of each animal and breed. But, ask any owner and they would likely do anything for their pet. For devoted pet owners, their furry friends are beloved members of the family with whom they share a mutually beneficial relationship.

    Pets manage to bring so much joy into our lives. They make us smile and laugh, comfort us when we’re sad or sick, and are always there for us no matter what. We need to always be there for them in return by providing them the safety and protection they deserve. One of the signs of a responsible and skilled pet ownership is the ability and knowledge in providing safety measures and planning and preparing for unexpected emergencies.

    One of the things pets need protection from is fires and injuries and illnesses related to hot weather including heat stroke, sunburn, and burns. An estimated 500,000 pets are affected annually by home fires. Nearly 1,000 house fires each year are accidentally started by the homeowners’ pets, according to a new data analysis by the National Fire Protection Association. The American Kennel Club® and ADT Security Services have joined forces for the annual National Pet Fire Safety Day to spread awareness about how pets can start home fires and more importantly how to prevent them. The special day commences on July 15th, but remember that pets need protection every day.

    Fires can be devastating and destructive. Simple protective measures and awareness can be the difference between life and death. As loved and valued family members, it makes sense to include your pet in fire prevention plans and rescue alerts in case a fire strikes.

    In honor of National Pet Fire Safety Day, here are tips from The AKC and ADT to protect your pet and ways to provide escape and rescue:

    Prevent your pet from starting fires

    Extinguish open flames – Pets are curious creatures and will investigate cooking appliances, candles, or even a fire in your fireplace. Ensure your pet is not left unattended around an open flame and make sure to thoroughly extinguish any open flame before leaving your home.

    Remove stove knobs – Be sure to remove stove knobs or protect them with covers before leaving the house. According to the National Fire Protection Association, a stove or cook top is the number one piece of equipment involved in your pet starting a fire.

    Invest in flameless candles – These candles contain a light bulb rather than an open flame, and take the danger out of your pet knocking over a candle. Cats are notorious for starting fires when their tails turn over lit candles.

    Beware of water bowls on wooden decks – Do not leave a glass water bowl for your pet outside on a wooden deck.  The sun’s rays, when filtered through the glass and water, can actually heat up and ignite the wooden deck beneath it. Choose stainless steel or ceramic bowls instead.

    Keep your pets safe

    Keep Pets Near Entrances When Away From Home – Keep collars on pets and leashes at the ready in case firefighters need to rescue your pet.  When leaving pets home alone, keep them in areas or rooms near entrances where firefighters can easily find them.

    Secure Young Pets – Especially with young puppies, keep them confined away from potential fire-starting hazards when you are away from home such as in crates or behind baby gates in secure areas.

    Since Pets Left Alone Can’t Escape a Burning Home – Consider using monitored smoke detectors which are connected to a monitoring center so emergency responders can be contacted when you’re not home. These systems provide an added layer of protection beyond battery-operated smoke alarms.

    Set-up a Pet Alert Window Cling – Write down the number of pets inside your house and attach the static cling to a front window. This critical information saves rescuers time when locating your pets.  Make sure to update the number of pets listed.

    Planning for unexpected emergencies like home fires and taking the above precautions could mean a world of difference for you and your furry friends. We encourage you to learn the simple tips and techniques and implement ways to keep everyone safe from danger.

    Along with fires, pets need protection from other heat related illnesses and injuries. Especially when the warmer weather ramps up and summer is in full effect, pet owners need to keep their beloved animals safe. As the temperature increases, so does the number of heat stokes, sunburns and other types of burns. The heat-related injury or death of a beloved pet is a tragic, and in most cases, a completely preventable situation.

    Here are some hot weather tips for your pet:

    1. When the temperature is high, make sure your pets have a shady place to get relief from the sun, be careful to not over-exercise them, give them access to cool water to drink, and keep them indoors when it’s extremely hot.
    2. Know the warning signs. According to the ASPCA, symptoms of overheating in pets include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse. They can also include seizures and vomit along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees. Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. These pets, along with the elderly, the overweight, and those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.
    3. Never, ever leave your pet parked in a car. The vehicle can become like a steaming hot oven within minutes and become a fatal situation fast. In fact, leaving pets unattended in cars in extreme weather is illegal in several states.
    4. Give your pet a summer style and skin regimen. A lightweight summer haircut helps prevent overheating. Shave down to a one-inch length, but never to the skin, so your dog still has some protection from the sun. Brushing cats more often than usual can prevent problems caused by excessive heat. Be sure that any sunscreen or insect repellent product you use on your pets is labeled specifically for use on animals.
    5. Keep your pet safe from hot surfaces and keep walks at a minimum when the temperatures soar. Hot asphalt and cement can cause burning on sensitive feet and paws.
    6. Keep them safe during summer celebrations. Certain foods and drinks can be poisonous for pets and fun celebratory activities can be dangerous. Exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns or trauma to curious pets and even unused fireworks can be hazardous.

    Please seek immediate medical attention if your pet is showing signs or suffering from a heat related injury. Time is of the essence in these cases and can mean a life or death situation. Fast action can protect your pet and precautionary measures can prevent danger.

    Pets are protective by nature to their owner and loved ones. Responsible and capable owners must reciprocate by providing protection in return from excessive heat and fire risks.

    Happy summer and National Pet Fire Safety Day! Don’t forget to have fun and enjoy life and special times with your pets and loved ones! Remember to make every day pet and animal safety day.

    CALL NOW: 857-300-5300 Emergency After Hours Number: 800-894-9267 XLAW1 (5291)

    Resources:
    http://www.akc.org/
    https://www.cdc.gov/
    http://pets.webmd.com/

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