In ensuring your pet’s health and safety, even the most responsible owner can overlook some of the following concerns. With a little forethought, however, many problems can be avoided.

Most owners heed the warning to never leave a pet in the car, but may fail to be aware of other places as that can become extremely hot. Some garages, sheds, greenhouses, or planter areas are much too hot for pets in the summer months. Be particularly aware of areas a pet may accidentally become trapped. Secure these locations so that pets can not enter as over heating can be a serious problem.

Garages often hold an assortment of tools, vehicles, and fluids presenting a variety of potential pet hazards. Beware of fluids, such as oil, paint, and especially antifreeze that are left out. They can be harmful or toxic to pets. Antifreeze is extremely dangerous as a small quantity can be fatal, and pets can be attracted to it because of its appealing taste. It is safest to keep cats out of garage as some will actually hide in the undercarriage of a car or other unsafe spot. Remember that if a cat is frightened, whether from loud noises or unexpected guests, he may be prone to hiding in unusual and dangerous places.

Another common situation is a wet dog. A wet dog in the summer may have skin, as well as odor and grooming issues; particularly pets with thick coats. Toweling your dog off after a swim and removing a wet collar helps reduce potential problems. If your pet gets wet in the winter, make sure he gets inside a warm and dry environment quickly. A wet pet can get chilled easily in the winter.

Finally, be aware of local hazards. Depending where one lives there may be other dangers. Snake bites, are of particular concern in the south. Insects are bothersome in many locations. While protection against fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes has become fairly universal, spiders, gnats, flies and other bugs can also be serious pests. Wild animals, even in the suburbs, may be a threat to your pet too. In some cases neighbors may present a hazard. While most neighbors are friendly, try to be aware if a neighbor is anti-pet. Sometimes children do not treat pets properly, but unfortunately some adults won’t treat a neighbor’s pet appropriately either. Fortunately, awareness combined with keeping a pet contained often helps this type of situation. These are some of the issues that are typically not thought about until a problem arises. However, with a little extra attention owner and pet can be spared unnecessary problems.