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.
While your kids are heading back to school, it might also be a good time to consider some education for your furry friend. Check out our article on Sending Your Dog Back to School for tips on training and enrichment activities that can keep your pet engaged and well-behaved during this transition period.
Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your animal clinic in Fox Lake, IL, today! We offer comprehensive vet wellness and pet vaccination services to ensure your furry friend stays healthy and protected throughout the school year and beyond. Regular check-ups and vaccinations are essential parts of responsible pet ownership, especially during times of change like the back-to-school season.