Safety tips for healthy pets

Do not feed bones to pets, especially poultry bones. They can splinter and cause serious injury or death.

Keep toxic plants out of reach. Holiday plants such as holly, mistletoe and poinsettias can be harmful if eaten.

Watch decorations. Keep cords, candles and ornaments out of reach. Many decorative items can pose choking or burn hazards.

Be mindful of gift wrapping. Ribbons, bells and small decorations can be choking hazards.

Avoid overfeeding. Rich foods such as butter, nuts, candy and chocolate can upset your pet’s digestive system or be toxic.

Keep alcohol away from pets. Even small amounts can make them very sick.

Give pets as gifts with care. Instead of surprising someone with a pet, consider a gift card or pet supplies so they can choose the right pet at the right time.

Use identification. Microchipping and ID tags increase the chance of recovering a lost pet. SEAACA offers low-cost microchipping.

Be cautious with costumes. Only use pet-safe costumes that do not restrict breathing, vision or movement. Remove them if your pet is uncomfortable.

Keep pets away from the front door. Trick-or-treaters and parties can be stressful. Place pets in a quiet room away from activity.

Keep pets indoors. This helps prevent them from getting lost or harmed. Background noise such as a TV or radio can provide comfort.

Keep candy out of reach. Chocolate and wrappers can cause serious health issues.

Secure decorations. Pumpkins, candles, wiring and glow sticks can be dangerous if chewed or knocked over.

Supervise children. They may not understand how treats and excitement can affect pets.

If your pet goes missing, check SEAACA the next day. Continue checking, as pets may travel far when frightened.

Keep pets hydrated. Always provide fresh water at home and on walks.

Provide shade. Make sure pets have a cool place to rest outdoors.

Protect paws. If pavement is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your pet’s paws. Walk on grass or during cooler times of day.

Never leave a pet in a parked car. Temperatures can rise quickly and become deadly within minutes.

On a 78-degree day, a car can reach 100–120 degrees in minutes. On a 90-degree day, temperatures can reach up to 160 degrees in less than 10 minutes.

If you see an animal in a hot car, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Watch the CityTV video on heat safety

This video includes captions. If you need assistance accessing this content, contact ADACoordinator@lakewoodca.gov.

Keep pets indoors during fireworks. Loud noises can cause fear and panic. Use a quiet, secure room with food, water and bedding.

Provide comfort. Background noise such as a TV or radio can help reduce anxiety.

Talk to your veterinarian. Sedatives may be appropriate for highly anxious pets.

Do not tether pets outside. Frightened animals can injure themselves trying to escape.

Protect pets from heat. Keep them shaded with plenty of water and never leave them in a parked car.

Use identification. Microchipping and ID tags improve the chance of recovery if your pet gets lost.

Avoid unsafe foods. Bones, onions, grapes, raisins and alcohol can be dangerous to pets.

Supervise children. They may accidentally expose pets to fireworks or let them escape.

If your pet goes missing, check SEAACA as soon as possible.