Keeping your pet safe from hazards in Auckland

There are unfortunately many hazards that can affect pets, so it’s best for pet owners to be aware of potential risks to their beloved cats and dogs.

In Auckland, as in many cities, these hazards can be both within the animal’s direct environment as well as outside their home area.

Today we want to outline some of the key hazards that can present a risk to pet dogs and cats. Hopefully, this guide will increase the awareness of these dangers and help you to know what to do in the event of an emergency.

THE DANGERS OF ROADS FOR YOUR PET

For household pets, roads present the biggest hazard, with the danger of road accidents causing injury and trauma to your animal friend.  Dogs  must   be  on  leads  on  the  roadside as they have zero road sense, especially if a  distraction  is  on the  other side of the road. When walking a dog, be sure you’re strong  enough not to  be pulled off your feet when it gets excited. Get used to an extendable lead and understand how it works so it can be easily controlled.

Wandering out onto the road can also present the risk of coming in contact with other animals that may be feral, or simply less friendly than your domesticated pet.

It’s vital that you install appropriate fencing and gates to keep your pet safely inside their home environment to reduce the risk of dangers from both vehicles and other animals. We recommend gates are sprung so that they auto-close and latch. 

COMMON TOXINS AND POISONS FOR PETS 

You’re most likely aware of the dangers of toxic substances such as rat poison and snail bait. Find out more about the large range of NZ toxins on our pet toxins and poisons page.

However, some pet owners may be less aware of the dangers of other common household items – for example, basic cooking ingredients such as garlic and onion, chocolate and certain common household plants and flowers.

You can read more about these poisonous substances that are toxic to pets (CW NOTE: link to Blog Post 5) to become more aware of their dangers. To reduce the risk of poisoning occurring to your dog or cat, make sure you stay vigilant about keeping them away from toxic items.

If your dog or cat has ingested toxic substances or poisonous items, be sure to seek immediate veterinarian assistance for your pet. 

THE RISK OF TICKS FOR NZ CATS AND DOGS       

Ticks are an increasing problem in New Zealand’s coastal areas and inland north of Lake Taupo. Ticks present a risk to pets as they can cause irritation, abscesses, AND anaemia, therefore, it’s vital to keep cats and dogs away from them.

There is only one tick species in NZ that infests warm-blooded animals, which is known commonly as the New Zealand cattle tick.  Despite the name, this tick feeds on many species of animals other than cattle, including dogs, sheep, deer, cats and humans.

Most tick activity is between early spring and late autumn.

We can provide advice and treatment that works better than topical Prac-Tic treatment, which do not wash  off and is thus excellent for active dogs that need plenty of washing in summer. These treatments also deal with fleas as well.

PROFESSIONAL, CARING VETERINARY CLINIC IN AUCKLAND

If your pet requires emergency or complex medical treatment, it is vital that they are taken to a clinic that has experienced vet specialists and the necessary medical equipment and technology.

Contact the experienced and qualified veterinary team at Normanby Road Vet Clinic for advice in an emergency and to make an urgent appointment for your cat or dog. You can also talk to the vets about reducing the risks to your pet around your home.

Call (09) 638 8445 or use our online contact form to send an enquiry. Remember, if your dog or cat has ingested toxic substances or been involved in a road accident or fight with another animal, be sure to call immediately.