Special Concerns

Florida living is great for people and pets alike. But just as we have to adjust to the climate and life style so do our pets. The sunny days, the heat of the summer, the threats of lightning, hurricanes and tornadoes, the high humidity, different flora and fauna, etc may require us as pet owners to pay special attention to ensure our pets remain safe, healthy and happy.

Summer, autumn, winter and spring all bring out differing concerns that pet owners need to be aware of which may adversely affect their pets. The watchful, responsible owner will be a careful one and do everything possible to provide a safe and healthy environment for their furry companion.

Weather

The weather in Florida presents some potentially hazardous conditions for pets and people alike. Hurricanes, floods and tornadoes are conditions which we must be aware of and ensure that we have proper emergency plans in order not only for ourselves but also for our furry companions.

Most public shelters do not accept pets. If you are in an evacuation zone, you must make alternative plans for your pets. Leaving them at home is not a positive option. Proper planning before a disaster hits is essential.

Some planning suggestions and items for survival include:

• A safe place to house your pets - a motel or hotel which allows pets in an emergency,; a private boarding kennel; or a friend�s or relative�s home not in the evacuation area. For a listing of some motel/hotels which allow pets pick up the brochure "Pet Friendly Hotels & Motels".
• A separate crate or pet carrier large enough for the pet to move around in for each of your pets.
• A collar, leash, identification tags and muzzle for dogs, a collar, leash, identification tags for cats.
• Pet identification records and medical information including up to date vaccinations, photo of the pet, veterinarian name and phone number, your name with home and emergency numbers, microchip or tattooing information.
• Pet food, water and all medications - a two week supply is a good idea.
• Kitty litter, newspapers, plastic bags and disinfectants to handle pet waste.

Lightning

Florida has been called the lightning capital of the world. It is just as easy for a pet to be hit by lightning as it is for a human. When lightning is in the area make sure your pet is safe.

Heat

The heat and high humidity can be dangerous to your pet. Make sure they always have plenty of fresh water.

Do not leave a dog or cat in a closed vehicle. The inside of cars and trucks heat up quickly and the animals may develop heat-stroke; their brains �cook� and death is probable. It is estimated that if the temperature outside is 85 degrees, the temperature in the car reaches 102 degrees in 10 minutes.

Walking a dog in the heat of the day can be stressful to the animal. Take those long walks in the early morning or at night after the sun goes down. The pavement gets very hot and can cause burns to the paws of dogs and cats.

Heat can also cause skin rashes.

Plants

There are many plants in our gardens and homes which may cause serious health problems to our pets. See Bishop brochures - �Household Hazards� and �Plants Poisonous to Dogs and Cats�.

Water - retention ponds/lakes

Many Floridians live in housing communities which have retention ponds. These ponds are of varying depth, may have harmful chemicals sprayed in them to contain algae, and/or have wildlife which could cause problems to you cat or dog. Train your animals to stay out of this water.

Alligators & Other Reptiles

Alligators may be found at any time of the year. In mating season they migrate. If you live near a retention pond, be alert for a possible guest.

Snakes: There are both venomous and non-venomous snakes found in Florida. If you suspect your pet has been bitten, take your pet to the veterinarian for treatment.

Ticks & Fleas

Fleas & ticks are common problems in Florida. Be sure to check your pet regularly. Ticks can be passed from animals to humans and may carry disease. Fleas are a nuisance and bothersome to dogs and cats. Be sure to read and follow the advice carefully for any product you use to control these critters. Some chemicals contained in differing products when combined may be hazardous.

Creepy Crawling Critters

Spiders and other insects - Animals may be allergic to the sting of a bee or a wasp, the bite of a spider or a fire ant.

Frogs & Toads & Skinks & Anoles - Many animals like to play with these fast moving critters. If they decide to have a quick snack, they can become ill.

Raccoons - Recognized throughout the United States, raccoons can present a danger in this area by being a carrier of rabies. Even if rabies is not present their bite can severely injure a dog or a cat.

Skunks - not only is their odor not pleasant when on your prized pet, but skunks may carry rabies.

Water birds - herons, egrets and wood storks will usually fly away, but it is good to remember that their beaks can produce quite a hole.