Outdoor Pet Safety Pets Families.com

Outdoor Pet Safety

First and foremost, don’t let your pets roam the neighborhood! They are at risk for being hit by a car, getting attacked by another animal, and more. Walk your dog on a leash and/or exercise your pets in a fenced yard.
Make sure your fence is sturdy and there are no holes through which your pets can escape. Make sure your fence is high enough to keep your pet from jumping or climbing out. An electric fence may keep your dog in but won’t keep other animals out.
Don’t chain or tie your pets outside without supervision. An unsupervised pet on a chain may get tangled and choke or get attacked and be unable to escape.
Make sure your pets have plenty of fresh water available at all times.
Make sure your pets have access to shade to prevent heatstroke.
Make sure your pets have protection from the elements.
Keep a collar with valid and current ID on your pet at all times.
Don’t let your pets in the garage or near where cars are parked — antifreeze is extremely toxic to dogs and cats.
Use care when spraying insecticides and other lawn and garden chemicals. Keep your pet inside while you are spraying. Think about using organic and/or less harsh treatments for your pets’ safety.
If you have a pool, you have an extra hazard. While most dogs and cats can swim, if they are injured falling in or can’t get out, they can drown. A separate fence around your pool can keep most pets out. If you do not have a separate fence, make sure there are steps or a ladder your pet can use to climb out if he falls in.
Don’t ever leave your pet in a closed car. Temperatures inside a closed car can quickly reach lethal levels.