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October is National Animal Safety and Prevention Month. All month long, veterinarians, pet-owners, and members of the ASPCA work to promote awareness about common dangers for pets and offer animal care tips for keeping them safe. If you are a pet owner, you may be wondering which steps you can take to keep your pets healthy and safe for many years to come. For information on how to protect your furry companion, continue reading below as the staff from Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital in Waipahu, HI, offers their best pet health and safety tips.

5 Animal Care Tips for Your Pet

1. Supervise Pets While They Are Outdoors

Never allow your pets to go outdoors without appropriate supervision. Pets that are left to roam are vulnerable to cars, pet-nappers, and attacks from other animals. Keep your pet leashed while walking or hiking and watch them closely, even if they are just playing in the yard.

2. Microchip Your Pet

Have a veterinarian install a microchip in your pet while they are still young. These microchips—which are placed at the nape of the neck—help to identify your pet if they are found and brought to a shelter or veterinary hospital. When scanned, the microchip will turn up your name, address, and phone number so you can be contacted right away.

3. Pet-Proof Your Home

Animal CareScan your home for food and other chemicals that can be toxic to your pets. This can be as simple as keeping chocolate and raisins out of your dog’s reach, but it may also include storing art and cleaning supplies in a secure closet. These simple steps can help to prevent an emergency and keep your pet safe.

4. Include Your Pet in Your Disaster Plan

It is important to have a disaster plan for yourself and family for a fire, flood, or storm in which you need to evacuate. While making your disaster plan, include your pets. Have a leash or carrying case handy to take them out of the house, as well as a bag with extra food, a blanket, and a favorite toy.

5. Schedule Yearly Visits to the Veterinarian

One of the simplest, but most frequently overlooked, animal care tips is taking your pet to the vet at least once a year. During these yearly visits, your veterinarian will update any vaccines and examine your pet’s overall health and behavior. These visits can serve as an early intervention for illnesses, helping to add years to your pet’s life.

For additional animal care and health tips for your pet, visit the Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital website to learn more. To schedule a visit with a veterinarian, call (808) 671-7387 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., seven days a week. Emergency services are also available from 8:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. 

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