Believe it or not, summer is already starting to wind down, and school is starting up again. Our furry friends manage to get into mischief at any time of year, and the start of school is no exception.
Here are a few safety tips:
Keep School Supplies Out Of Paws’ Reach
Fido and Fluffy are curious and playful, and may be quite interested in investigating your little ones’ school supplies. Your four-legged pal could get seriously hurt or sick if they were to eat or chew on things like glue, pencils, scissors, staples, and markers. Store backpacks and lunchboxes in spots your pet can’t reach. (Note: if you use a system, such stickers or a chalkboard, to track and monitor your child’s behavior, chores, and progress, this is a good thing to add to it.)
Choose Nontoxic Products
Never underestimate pets’ capacity for mischeif. No matter how careful you are, Fido and Fluffy may still get into your child’s school things at some point. Err on the side of caution, and choose non-toxic products when shopping for things like paint and markers.
Don’t Share Lunches
Many lunchbox classics, like grapes and raisins, are toxic to our four-legged friends. Keep lunch boxes and bags away from pets. Talk to your kids about Fido and Fluffy’s diet, and let them know that many foods aren’t safe for them. Other things on the no-no list include chocolate, avocados, meat on the bone, raw dough or yeast, nuts, and mushrooms. It’s also best to avoid processed foods, with the exception of some deli meats, as many of them contain things like xylitol, and are high in fat, salt, and/or sugar.
Be Cautious At Drop offs
We’ve all seen adorable videos of kids being walked to and from bus stops by their dogs, cats, or even chickens. This is cute, but it’s not safe to let your animal companions out unsupervised near roads or traffic. If you take your furry bff with you for drop offs or pickups, keep him on a leash.
Make Time To Play
Last but not least, pay some extra attention to your four-legged pal. This can be a tough time for Fido and Fluffy, as they may have gotten used to having their younger humans around more often. Also, as we gear up to celebrate our furry friends, remember that July 31st is National Mutt Day. Learn more about why we celebrate this special day and how you can participate by reading “July 31st Is National Mutt Day“.
Our Advice on Back To School Pet Safety in 2024
Why should school supplies be kept out of reach from pets?
School supplies should be kept out of reach from pets because many items, such as glue, pencils, scissors, staples, and markers, can pose serious health risks if ingested or chewed on by pets. These materials can cause intestinal blockages, poisoning, or injuries, leading to emergency veterinary care situations. Curious pets, especially dogs and cats, may be attracted to the textures and scents of school supplies, making it crucial to store these items safely away to prevent accidental ingestion and ensure the safety and well-being of your furry family members.
What types of school supplies could potentially harm pets if ingested?
School supplies that could harm pets if ingested include items like glue, pencils, markers, scissors, staples, and small objects such as erasers or small parts. These materials may pose various pet risks, including gastrointestinal blockages, poisoning, choking hazards, and internal injuries. Pet owners must be aware of these dangers and keep school supplies securely stored and out of their pets’ reach to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of their furry companions.
What are some everyday lunchbox items that are toxic to pets?
Some everyday lunchbox items that can be toxic to pets include grapes, raisins, chocolate, avocados, meat on the bone, raw dough or yeast, nuts, mushrooms, and processed foods. These items contain substances or pose risks that can harm pets if ingested. Pet owners must be aware of these potential hazards and take precautions to keep their pets away from these foods to ensure their safety and well-being.
What precautions should be taken during school drop-offs and pickups with pets?
During school drop-offs and pickups with pets, it’s essential to take several precautions to ensure children’s and animals’ safety. First and foremost, keep pets on a leash and under control to prevent them from running near roads or traffic. Avoid allowing pets to roam unsupervised in these areas. Additionally, be mindful of your pet’s behavior and temperament around children, ensuring they remain calm and well-behaved. Supervision is vital to prevent any unpredictable interactions between pets and kids. Taking these precautions can create a safer environment during school-related activities involving your furry family members.
What steps can be taken to maintain a pet’s well-being during the back-to-school season?
Maintaining a pet’s well-being during the back-to-school season involves several key steps. Firstly, ensure that school supplies, such as glue, pencils, scissors, and markers, are stored out of your pet’s reach to prevent ingestion or chewing, which can lead to health issues. Choose non-toxic products when possible to minimize risks. Educate your children about foods toxic to pets, like grapes, raisins, chocolate, and more, to prevent accidentally sharing harmful snacks. Keep pets on a leash during school drop-offs to stop them from running near traffic. Lastly, provide extra attention and playtime to ease the transition for pets who may miss the presence of children at home.
Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your animal clinic in Hobe Sound, FL, today!
