All dogs are at risk from the dangers of the wild.
It doesn’t matter if you live in the city, the suburbs, country, or on a remote island, the dangers are always present. Every wild animal that is considered a predator is a risk to your dog; small dogs are more prone to be killed or attacked then the larger dogs.
Pending situations, even a non predatory wild animal can lash out towards your dog out of fear or protecting its young.
These wild animals can carry many types of diseases especially rabies. Even if the predator doesn’t kill your pet but takes a bite or scratches, it can cause severe injuries. Even if you have a tough large breed, you must consider that a feral animal when hungry or protecting its young can cause severe bodily injuries or even kill. With a small dog they can grab and run or fly away.
What can we do as owners? First be vigilant of your surroundings and the areas you walk, make sure your dog is not loose and it’s on a leash. Please realize that a retractable leash is not a leash, you will not have any control in any situation. When a dog is at the end of those retractable leashes you can’t help or prevent an attack. Usually the most dangerous times are at dawn or dusk; try to always make your presence known in remote areas when walking. Startling can also cause an adverse behavior in a feral animal to lash out. Making your presence known will usually scare the animal away and prevent an attack. The jackets they sell for dogs to prevent attacks does not work it is more of a gimmick than anything else. The appearance looks like a good shield but it’s not. Don’t waste your money on that, your vigilance will be more effective.
Don’t think that a closed back yard would be safe it’s not; any predator can get in or fly down to snatch your pet. Always be outside with your pet, even if it’s for a moment, and don’t think it can’t happen. The best solution is to be very vigilant, have your pet on a 6 foot leash or shorter when you’re out on walks. Sometimes things can happen regardless with all the precautions you take, but being attentive and vigilant you lower the odds of an attack. Choose the locations and times when to take your dog out for a walk. It’s always safer to walk your dog, in a more active area.
Oleander
The Oleander can be found almost anywhere in the southern parts of the United States. These are very toxic and can cause fatal heart abnormalities, muscle tremors, incoordination, vomiting and bloody diarrhea.
Till next time have a woof woof of a month.
