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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:
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Vaccinating ALL dogs and cats
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Do NOT keep wild animals as pets
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Avoid all wild animals (it's natural for
them to bite)
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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.
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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
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Treat your pet to yearly veterinarian
check-ups.
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Be up to date on your
pet's vaccinations.
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Use NON-TOXIC flea/tick
preventatives and shampoo
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Provide a good diet and
proper exercise. Better quality
food means better health for your pet.
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Consider obedience training - (non-abusive
techniques) training protects you and your pet and creates a special bond
between you.
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Certain breeds require
professional grooming (ie: Llasa Apso, Poodle, Wheaton Terrier etc.)
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Health
and Safety Tips
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Do NOT approach unfamiliar animals and
NEVER APPROACH WILDLIFE!
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Keep electrical cords out of reach of
puppies and kittens.
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Do NOT leave a pet unattended in a
vehicle during any season, especially in summer, EVEN FOR ONE MINUTE!
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Choke collars should be used for
training only. Do NOT leave pet wearing a choke collar unattended.
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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
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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.
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Do NOT over exercise, prevent heat
exhaustion.
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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
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Provide proper shelter -
use an insulated pet
house
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Keep pet house out of the wind
and make sure house faces south.
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Use hay or straw inside instead of cloth
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Pet house should be large enough for pet
to stand in, turn around and lie down comfortably, and small enough to
conserve body heat
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Bring pets indoors in severe winter
weather - WIND CHILL KILLS
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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
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Outside animals need extra food
(calories) for added body fat for warmth
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Check that water in water bowl is not
frozen
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Check and clean paws if pet is exposed
to road salt, ice and/or mud
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