Pet emergencies are an unfortunate part of pet ownership, but information and vigilance can help reduce their likelihood. You owe your beloved pet the care they need to maintain their safety and health, and prevention can save you from stressful and costly veterinary visits. Our Animal Medical Hospital of Naples team offers you the following tips to protect your four-legged friend. 

Schedule your pet’s wellness appointments

Routine veterinary visits are fundamental for the early detection and prevention of health issues. Schedule your pet’s exam with our Animal Medical Hospital of Naples team either annually or twice yearly, depending on your pet’s age, breed, and health. During their exam, we will administer vaccinations, develop a parasite prevention regimen, screen for heartworms, and perform a dental exam and blood tests to detect underlying health problems. Preventive care is critical for avoiding surprise emergency visits. 

Pet-proof your home and yard

Many accidents occur when pets chew or ingest a dangerous item in their environment. Pets, like toddlers, are curious about everything they encounter. To avoid emergencies, take the following steps:

  • Remove toxic plants and replace them with non-toxic varieties.
  • Install child-proof latches on cabinets.
  • Store medications, household cleaners, and automotive fluids on high shelves or in secure cabinets.
  • Pick up sharp objects and small items, such as coins, batteries, buttons, and string, that your pet could swallow. 
  • Cover all electrical cords with sturdy cord covers.

Avoid feeding your pet unsafe foods

Many foods that are tasty and healthy for people can poison our pets. Never feed them the following:

  • Chocolate
  • Xylitol (i.e., a sugar substitute found in desserts and some peanut butter)
  • Grapes and raisins
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Avocados
  • Uncooked yeast dough
  • Onions and garlic

A balanced diet formulated for your pet’s age, size, breed, and health status can maintain their overall health. Do not feed table scraps and excess treats to prevent weight gain and obesity, which can lead to diabetes and heart disease. Our team can help you develop a customized diet for your pet.

Train and socialize your pet

Training helps prevent behavioral problems, such as roaming, that can lead to veterinary emergencies. Teach your dog basic commands such as “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Come.” Socialize your pet with a variety of animals and people to boost their confidence and reduce anxiety and aggression. We recommend group training classes, where your pet will meet other people and pets in a controlled situation. 

Know pet emergency signs

A quick response can save your pet’s life in an emergency. Learn to recognize signs that constitute an emergency, such as:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Excessive vomiting
  • Trauma (e.g., falling from a height, being hit by a car)
  • Sudden lameness
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Eye injuries
  • Straining to defecate or urinate
  • Seizures
  • Excessive lethargy
  • Heatstroke
  • Sudden behavioral changes

Put together a pet first aid kit and learn basic first aid techniques, which can be helpful when your pet sustains a small wound or minor injury. Call our Animal Medical Hospital of Naples staff for further instructions when you are unsure about your pet’s condition.  

Ensure your pet has current identification

Many emergencies occur when a pet escapes and becomes permanently lost because they do not have proper ID tags or microchip information. Always ensure your furry friend’s tags and microchip information are current. If your pet is not microchipped, our team highly recommends this permanent form of identification that helps reunite lost pets with their owners. 

Supervise your pet when outdoors

While spending time with your pet in the great outdoors is great for exercise and enrichment, the outdoors also poses certain dangers. Always supervise your pet in the yard and use a leash while walking or visiting parks or natural areas. Be cautious of wildlife, unleashed pets, and weather conditions. Keep your furry pal hydrated by taking plenty of water and a collapsible bowl during walks or traveling.  

You can significantly reduce the risk of pet emergencies and promote a long, healthy, and happy life for your four-legged friend with preventive care, proper training, and preparation. Schedule your pet’s wellness exam with our Animal Medical Hospital of Naples team, so we can assess your pet for any health issues and help ensure they stay healthy and happy.