Madison Magazine February - March 2020 | Page 14

Pets, Pets,Pets How to protect your dog from winter During winter, extra precautions need to be taken to ensure your dog’s wellbeing. Here’s how to protect your pooch from winter hazards. THE COLD During winter, dogs — especially short-haired varieties — are at risk of frostbite and hypothermia. It’s a good idea to bundle your pet in a coat or sweater and limit their time outdoors. Additionally, make sure your pup has a warm place to sleep. A thick and comfy bed or blanket works; just make sure it’s placed away from any drafts and off the cold floor. POISONS Keep your pooch away from antifreeze. This is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that can attract animals and children. Wipe up antifreeze spills right away and keep it, and all other household chemicals, well out of reach. Road salt is another poisonous substance and dogs are at risk of ingesting it when licking their paws after a walk. Furthermore, chemicals used to melt snow and ice also tend to irritate the pads on your dog’s feet Always wipe your dog’s paws following a winter stroll. IF THE WORST HAPPENS If your pooch shows signs of hypothermia or ingests antifreeze or road salt, call a veterinarian right away. Some symptoms of hypothermia in dogs include weakness, shivering and lack of mental alertness. For additional symptoms and for immediate care procedures, consult a reliable medical website such as www.petmd.com Three things to do if you’re flying with your cat or dog Are you taking a trip with your four-legged friend? Here are three things you’ll need to do at least several months in advance to ensure that all goes smoothly. 1. Book your flight: the spots on planes for pets are limited. 2. Get in touch with the consulate of your destination country to find out what rules you’ll need to comply with. If you’re heading to an European Union country or to Mexico, for example, the following requirements (and possibly others) will need to be met: • Your pet must be microchipped • Your pet’s vaccinations must be up to date • You must obtain an International Health Certificate for your pet within the 10 days preceding your departure (only a veterinarian can provide this) 3. If you don’t already have one, get an appropriate kennel for your pet. The kennel be large enough to permit your pet to Pet Grooming should both stand up and comfortably turn around • Flea Dipping Available • in. It should also be well ventilated. No Animal Too Big or Too Small Note that a number of airline companies Judy’s 109 Hallie Irvine St., Richmond, KY 859-623-6805 Judy Rhodus • Owner/Groomer [email protected] allow small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin, provided they stay in their kennel and the kennel fits under the seat. Larger pets must travel in the baggage hold, where they’re placed in a heated and pressurized area. Once you’ve made these preparations, it’s smooth sailing — or rather, smooth flying. Bon voyage! “Quality Pet CarH From People Who Care” MARK WALLS D.V.M. LORI EIDSON D.V.M. • Open 6 Days A Week • Small Animal Medicine and Surgery • Ultrasound • Laser Surgery • Dentistry • Cat Boarding H ELP C ONTROL T HE P ET P OPULATION B Y S PAYING & N EUTERING 1401 Lexington Rd., Richmond 859-625-1144 DAYCARE, BOARDING & GROOMING 1017 Berea Road • Richmond, KY 859-623-8131 AdamsGMCTruck.com Where dogs have fun! Call Now for Appointment 624-0055 239 Cardinal Drive • Richmond, KY La-Donna Weitkamp Mon.-Fri. 6:00a-6:00p Sat. 8a-9a & 5-6p • Sun. 5p-6p only Madison Magazine F E B R UA RY- M A R C H 2 02 0 www.luxurypetsky.com