Pet Safety Around the Cottage

We love to bring our pets to the cottage, but sometimes keeping them safe and comfortable can be a challenge. Depending upon your cabin’s location, you could be concerned about water issues, boating safety, pests and local wildlife. To ensure you and your pet have a safe and enjoyable visit we put together 10 helpful pet safety tips:

1. Water – Always make sure your pet has access to clean cool water inside and outside of your cottage or cabin. This especially important during the hot summer months when your pet is more susceptible to dehydration. Even if your property is located near a water source such as a river or lake, don’t assume your pet will walk down to get a drink when they need one. Place a bowl of water in the shade in an easy to reach location and check to make sure they are drinking it.
2. Protect your pet from heat stroke – if you’ll be leaving your pet unattended outside and tied up, make sure they have access to shade. Check to make sure their line can’t get tangled on objects or obstacles which ultimately make getting to the shade difficult or impossible.
3. Protect your pet from wildlife – don’t let your pet wander off outside your line of sight. If you have bear on your property carry bear mace and keep your dog on a leash when walking into less populated or wooded areas.
4. Prevent tragic accidents – try a harness or break away collar instead of a flat style collar. Flat collars can get caught on branches or other objects. Once restricted, dogs will struggle to try and free themselves, this can lead to accidental strangulation.
5. Dogs and water – if you are boating with your pet, be confident about your dog’s swimming abilities and the current water conditions. It’s not a bad idea to give your dog a little help by using a dog life preserver for extra protection. If the water is rough, it’s best to keep your dog in the boat and out of the water.
6. Dogs and boats – while in the boat, provide a non-slip area for your dog to sit or lye down. If there is room, place a dog bed or pet mat. If that’s not possible, trying placing some old towels in out of the way area of the vessel.
7. Put away toxic chemicals – dangerous chemicals around the cottage can pose a risk to your pet. You may store things like motor oil or antifreeze in your shed or around your cabin so make sure there are no leaks or spills where your pet can get to them. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that is inviting to dogs. For piece of mind, switch to a brand that doesn’t have Ethylene Glycol, which is toxic in very small amounts, instead use a brand that has propylene glycol which is much safer.
8. Travelling with your pet – for human traveling can be fun and exciting; for our pets it can sometimes be very stressful, even if they are traveling to the cottage and they’ve been there many times before. Try to bring a few familiar items along to ease their anxiety, such as a favorite chew toy or their favorite bed. A travel mat that can go from the car crate to the cottage is a great way to transition your pet into the new surroundings.
9. Protect sensitive stomachs – bring your pets regular food along when possible. Keeping their diet consistent can really help you and your pet enjoy your time at the cottage. After all who wants to worry about stomach upset and unexpected accidents when you’re trying to relax?
10. Have fun with your pet – make time to play and spend time outdoors with your buddy. One of the best parts of getting away to the cottage or cabin is the chance to unwind without the normal pressures of schedules and everyday demands. Spend that extra time appreciating your pet.