Posts in Category: Pet Safety

It’s not always easy to know what to do when a pet has a minor injury or is feeling under the weather. Of course, the internet is chock full of advice for everything from fleas to broken bones, but not all of it is usable, and some is downright dangerous.

There are plenty of reasons someone may turn to DIY pet remedies, and in some cases treating your pet at home makes sense (with guidance from your pet’s primary healthcare provider, that is). There are also plenty of instances in which home treatments should never be attempted.

The team at Harris Parkway Animal Hospital wants to make sure you know what to watch out for when it comes to DIY pet remedies, and how to make sure your furry loved one gets the best possible care.

While it can feel great to come home to your best friend, it’s hard not to wonder what they got into while you were away. Sure, some pets will happily curl up on the couch for several hours, but others may pace, howl, whine, or stare out the window obsessively. Pet separation anxiety can also cause pets to damage property or even hurt themselves. 

There might not be alternatives to never leaving your pet home alone, but it is imperative to know their limits.

We use the internet for nearly everything these days, and we rely on it to tell us exactly what we need to know – and fast. Few could argue with the convenience, but despite all the advantages, the available information isn’t always correct or necessary.

As for pet care, there are countless websites that aim to help owners. But some online veterinary advice should only be taken with a grain of salt.

The day of hearts, flowers, and chocolates is just around the corner. While we may relish the thought of opening up a heart-shaped box of treats, this gift can wreak havoc on our four-legged sweethearts. And, of course, the more “off-limits” something is, the more attractive it can be – especially to dogs who enjoy experimenting with foreign flavors. Fortunately, while the outcome of a pet poisoning can be quite dire, this is an entirely preventable situation.

One of our primary duties as pet owners is protecting our companions from danger. Pet-proofing our homes and yards, using only pet-safe cleaning products, and otherwise eliminating household risks represent just the tip of the iceberg. When a holiday pops up, there’s always some additional legwork required. Fortunately, with our guide to Halloween pet safety, you and your best friend have nothing to worry about!

Identifiable 

All cats and dogs benefit from having a microchip year round, but during Halloween, separations and escapes are much more common. ID tags and reflective collars are great additions to enhance Halloween pet safety.

Owners of black cats should be especially vigilant this time of year. These pets should remain inside as much as possible to reduce threats from pranksters.

One of the best things about surviving a Texas summer is the relief that comes when it’s finally over! Milder weather in fall and winter encourages people to once again get out and about, eating, exploring, and enjoying the great outdoors with our loveable pups. With so many pet friendly options here in Tarrant County, you’ll never run out of things to do!

Pet Friendly Patios

Dogs are allowed in the outdoor eating areas of many local restaurants in the Fort Worth area: Continue…

For many people, Fourth of July is one of the best parts of the summer. Picnics, barbeques, parades, swimming, and, of course, fireworks are on the agenda, make for a fun and festive few days. It’s understandable to want to include the family pet in the revelry, but for many animals, this is a day filled with stress and anxiety.

Join us as we highlight the most important tips for Fourth of July pet safety, and keep the holiday safe for the four-legged members of your family. Continue…

Imagine your pet escaped and you didn’t know where they went. Maybe you’ve actually experienced this scenario. With over 10 million pets being stolen or lost each year, it’s likely that some of our readers have encountered this frightening situation.

In most cases, dogs and cats are prone to roam and sometimes they have a habit of playing the escape artist when their owner isn’t looking. Other times, accidents occur when doors, gates, or windows are left open. Even with extreme care, there’s always a chance your pet will become lost. That’s why the team at Harris Parkway Animal Hospital wants to highlight the benefits of microchipping.

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There’s something special about a holiday season spent in the Fort Worth Area. Whether you attend The Nutcracker at the Texas Ballet Theater, bring the kids to see Santa at Sundance Square, or take in the sights at this years ICE! Exhibit, there’s something for everyone in our little corner of the world.

Our pets, on the other hand, most likely have a much different holiday experience than we do. Many of our seasonal delights can be downright dangerous for the four legged members of our families, and celebrating the holidays with pets means keeping an eye on safety.

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As we approach the holiday season, we’d love to tell you to celebrate with abandon, throw all caution to the wind, and embrace spontaneity. With pets in tow, it’s not always easy – or particularly safe – to put their needs on the backburner. However, what if you could wholeheartedly enjoy the season without compromising your pet’s well being? It’s not only possible, but holiday pet safety includes tactics that easily integrate into your family’s events and gatherings.

Up Go the Garlands

Festive decor turns any home into a holiday wonderland, but try to see garlands, wreaths, light strings, and other decorations from your pet’s point of view. Small parts that can either fall off or be chewed on can result in choking or gastrointestinal obstruction. Likewise, anything that’s stretched out low to the ground (or on top of a surface) can present entanglement issues.

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