There is a lot of opinion out there regarding whether or not you should let your pet outdoors. Many people feel that by not letting your pet outside to roam free, you are taking away some of their natural instincts. On the other hand, if you take into consideration the hazards that an outdoor pet faces, then maybe it is not a bad idea to just leave them inside. These are just a few of the problems outdoor pets have everyday:
Five Common Problems for Outdoor Pets
1. Traffic- Whether it is a busy highway or a country back road, no animal is safe in the line of traffic. The most common injury seen by vets is the animal being hit by a car. A lot of times it is fatal for the animal. If you are lucky enough to have your pet not killed by the impact, the cost to take your pet to the vet will surely make you wish you had just left them inside.
2. Predators- Birds of prey have been known to eat cats right in their residential yards. Your pet may be attacked by another animal, such as a dog going after a cat. Coyotes are known to go after cats and small dogs for a meal. Still, the most horrible predator out there would be malicious people. You wouldn’t want your pet to get in to the wrong hands.
3. Parasites- Animals are known to carry fleas, ticks, ringworm, and hookworm to name a few. They pick up these parasites by being outdoors and amongst these parasites. Some of the parasites can even pass to humans. Severe flea infestation can lead to anemia and even death for your pet.
4. Temperature- Extreme temperatures, whether it is hot or cold, should be avoided for your pet. Animals should be brought indoors when it drops below freezing, even earlier for small animals. A good rule of thumb is if you are uncomfortable, so are they.
5. Poisons- These are found lying around your yard. Pesticides, car and motor products, trash, and rotten food are all poisons that could be fatal to your pet. Antifreeze has a sweet flavor so animals like to drink it. It is a poison and will kill your pet.
It has to say something that the average age for an indoor cat is 12 years old but the average age for an outdoor cat is less than 5 years old. These are statistical facts that prove an indoor cat is safer and healthier than one who is left outdoors. Please keep your pets as safe as possible. Pick up your poisons around the yard. Make sure you bring your pets in at night and make regular visits to your pets’ veterinarian.
L. Lubel is extremely interested in veterinarian medicine and offering information for students who want to become veterinarian technicians.
OMG! A dog’s life seems pretty dangerous. I have 3 yorkies and they are kept under tight control – no predators will get near them!! This is a useful post though for people with large yard dogs.
Thank for your tips , I love my pet I could apply it to my puppy.