Furry Family Friday - Be Prepared

The last week or so was a sad week for dog owners in my life; my aunt, a friend and mom had to let dogs go.  I picked my mom's dog out and half her life I lived home with my mom.  It was a rough day for me too...

 

 

My own recent experience with pet loss was due to old age.  We knew it was coming and were on borrowed time anyhow.  Other furry family are taken from us too soon because our home is not entirely pet-proofed and accidents happen.  This inspired me to think about how we can make our homes better and safer for our pets.

 

We have kits to keep ourselves safe in case of emergencies: first-aid kits,emergency numbers, natural disaster kits and array of items to flashlights/candles to food stocks.  Are you ready to take care of your pet in case of an emergency?  

 

The Humane Society and Red Cross both have some great lists of items to have on hand in case of an emergency. Fairly basic to an emergency/first-aid kit for humans, it may be smart to have a separate one for our furry friends.  Items include: gauze, gloves, tape, rubbing alcohol, etc.  I recommend placing your veterinarians and emergency vet offices contact info right on top.  Also, make sure your pets are figured in to any escape routes and plans should your house ever encounter a fire or need some other quick exit.  Let friends, family and neighbors know about your emergency plans for yourself and your pets.

 

I thought that pet friendly plants went well with being prepared.  Knowing what can harm your pet before it happens reduces that need an emergency kit.  You should still have one though.

 

I personally don't have to worry too much about my pup and landscaping; I have a black thumb and avoid gardening & plants as much as possible.  If you do like to garden and there is a chance your furry family may be able to access the plants, aim to use non-toxic plants.  Visit the ASPCA for toxic & non-toxic plants for pets. This applies to house plants too, unless you're like me and you're house plants are fake...

 

We love our pets, show them by keeping them safe.  To those that have loved and lost furry friends, my heart goes out to you.  May you find peace and another furry family member to rescue you from your sorrow.  Join me next week for another feature of Furry Family Friday.  Don't worry, I know not all pets are furry; I'll get to our feathered and scaled friends =)