Click any of the links below to go to each section.


Rabies

     Rabies is a virus that is spread by the bite of an infected animal. Left untreated, rabies can be fatal. Rabies can be prevented by:

  • Vaccinating ALL dogs and cats

  • Do NOT keep wild animals as pets

  • Avoid all wild animals (it's natural for them to bite)

  • If your pet comes in contact with a wild animal or domestic dog or cat exhibiting unusual behavior, use protective clothing before administering aid to your pet and contact your veterinarian.

  • Consult a doctor for any bites or scratches sustained from any animal.

Identification

     Protect your pet and your family by making sure that your pet is wearing an identification tag at all times. Remember to change your pet's identification tag if you have moved to a new area. And, when on vacation or visiting out of the area, to attach a temporary ID tag too. A small expense can prevent your pet from being left unclaimed, and your family will be spared the sadness when your four-legged family member does not come home. Pet tags are available at pet stores and at the Warwick Valley Humane Society.

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Why is it important to spay/neuter your animal?

     By spaying/neutering your dog or cat, you can prevent the introduction of more unwanted puppies and kittens into a world that is already too full of neglected, abused and homeless animals. For both male and female, neutering at an early age can help prevent them from later developing health problems such as breast cancer and uterine infection in females, prostate disease and cancer of the testes in males.

     The effects of neutering on the dog's personality are similar to those on cats. Females aren't affected, males will roam less, be less aggressive toward other males, and be a more pleasant pet around the house. You can make a difference, both for the health and well-being of your own pets, and for the well-being of pets everywhere, by being a responsible pet owner. Please spay and neuter your pets.

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General Health Tips

  • Treat your pet to yearly veterinarian check-ups.

  • Be up to date on your pet's vaccinations.

  • Use NON-TOXIC flea/tick preventatives and shampoo

  • Provide a good diet and proper exercise. Better quality food means better health for your pet.

  • Consider obedience training - (non-abusive techniques) training protects you and your pet and creates a special bond between you.

  • Certain breeds require professional grooming (ie: Llasa Apso, Poodle, Wheaton Terrier etc.)

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Health and Safety Tips

  • Do NOT approach unfamiliar animals and NEVER APPROACH WILDLIFE!

  • Keep electrical cords out of reach of puppies and kittens.

  • Do NOT leave a pet unattended in a vehicle during any season, especially in summer, EVEN FOR ONE MINUTE!

  • Choke collars should be used for training only. Do NOT leave pet wearing a choke collar unattended.

  • Be sure your pet cannot back out of his collar (use the 2 finger width rule under the collar to check for proper fit.)

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Summer

  • Provide proper shade and water at all times. If away for long hours, make arrangements for a friend to check on your pet during that time.

  • Do NOT over exercise, prevent heat exhaustion.

  • Antifreeze is a sweet-tasting, deadly poison, even in small quantities. Clean up and store away from pets and children.

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Winter

  • Provide proper shelter - use an insulated pet house

  • Keep pet house out of the wind and make sure house faces south.

  • Use hay or straw inside instead of cloth

  • Pet house should be large enough for pet to stand in, turn around and lie down comfortably, and small enough to conserve body heat

  • Bring pets indoors in severe winter weather - WIND CHILL KILLS

  • Cats and kittens seeking warmth will curl up on a warm car engine - knock on hood or blow horn, wait a moment before starting engine

  • Outside animals need extra food (calories) for added body fat for warmth

  • Check that water in water bowl is not frozen

  • Check and clean paws if pet is exposed to road salt, ice and/or mud

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