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Winter presents myriad challenges for New Yorkers, but not only for two-legged ones. While winter has yet to make an appearance in the form of heavy snowfall not yet, that is -- cold weather means that dogs, like people, spend more time indoors.
Dog trainer and behaviorist Jody Rosengarten of The Bark Stops Here has some advice to keep pets safe while inside their homes.
Rosengarten, who sees clients throughout Fairfield and Westchester counties, says that while the crackles, flickers and warmth of a fire can be attractive to dogs, their humans should remember not leave a pet alone in a room with open flames (or hot electric elements, for that matter).
When these items are in use, monitor your dog at all times to keep him or her from getting burned or possibly starting a house fire, Rosengarten says. Also, burning candles, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and space heaters can create the potential for burns and smoke inhalation.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can be a threat to dogs as well as people, she says. Therefore furnaces, gas water heaters and gas/kerosene space heaters should always be evaluated for leakage. Rosengarten also says that because dogs tend to be in the house for longer periods of time during the winter, they can be exposed to longer-term carbon monoxide leaks, which may cause serious health issues or death. Check smoke detectors (and consider purchasing smoke detectors that also detect increases in carbon monoxide).
Many houseplants are poisonous to dogs, she says. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Poison Control Center lists copious toxic houseplants, as well as dangerous outdoor plants. It is important, says Rosengarten, to keep all plants out of your dogs reach.
Common sense should always prevail when it comes to your pets safety both in and outside of the home.
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