- NEVER leave a baby or small child alone with a pet even if the pet has been in the family for years. Animals are animals and will react differently than humans. Supervision is always necessary.
- NEVER put your face in the face of a dog or cat. This is a challenge to some animals. They could easily bite your face or scratch your eyes. NEVER rush up to an unfamiliar dog and reach out for them. This could scare the dog. Instead walk calmly and slowly toward the dog. If the owner is present, ask if you can pet their dog. Many dogs are nervous around new people so be calm. If the owner says no then respect their decision and walk away. If there is no owner present and the dog is a stray, take it slow and easy. Let your instincts lead you. If you think the dog is showing signs of aggression, slowly walk away and call the professionals…Animal Control.
- NEVER rush up to a wounded animal. Animals react to pain. They may think you are going to cause them more pain. Again, take it slow and easy. If the wounded animal is your pet, then you can calmly talk to them while you determine the extent of the injury. If it is not your pet, go with your instincts. If you think the pet is showing signs of aggression, slowly back away and call the professionals…Animal Control. Stay with the injured pet until they can be safely removed.
- ALWAYS have your pets vaccinated for rabies. AND make sure your pet receives the rabies booster vaccine as recommended by your veterinarian. Animal bites are much less complicated when proof of rabies vaccination is available. Individuals that have been bitten by un-vaccinated animals sometimes have to undergo a regimen of human rabies immune vaccinations. This could be avoided with a simple rabies vaccine for your cat or dog.
- ALWAYS have discussions with your children about the rules for pets. Educate your children so they will be safe around pets. Make sure your child knows to never startle a sleeping pet and never interfere with the pet while it is eating. Always be mindful of hands and fingers while offering food/treats to your dog.
- ALWAYS watch your pet around other people. Your pet is comfortable with you but may not feel the same around your friends.
- ALWAYS have identification on your pets. List your name and phone number to help get your pet returned if they get out. Check that your pets' ID tags and microchip information are current. If your pet does get loose, it is much easier to be able to identify the owners if all the information is up to date.
- ALWAYS provide food, water and shelter. This is the right thing to do AND it is the LAW.
- ALWAYS provide love and human interaction. Your pet needs you and depends on you. They may not understand your words but they do understand your actions. Show them love and they will respond with love.
- ALWAYS report animal abuse. Call your county animal control if you see animals neglected, abused, starved, without water or without shelter. Animal Control can investigate the concerns and determine what actions to take.
10 Most Important Things to Know About Pets:
Joann with her husband Doug are the owners of TCAR. She takes in and loves every unwanted dog she can.