Pet owners should always remain vigilant for threats to the health and safety of their furry family members. Encounters with wild animals in your neighborhood can create potentially dangerous situations for your cat or dog. Your pets should never be outside unattended. And if they are, a leash is an important tool to pull your pet away from a potentially dangerous situation. Below, we will discuss potential issues when pets encounter certain wild animals.
Pet Interactions with Skunks
Skunks can be a major problem for pet owners. A dog or cat that spooks a skunk can end up getting sprayed. Treating your pet after a skunk encounter will generally involve a very thorough bath. Weather permitting, bathe outside to minimize the risk of the spray affecting your furniture. If you do not have de-skunking shampoo for your pet, you can make a DIY concoction yourself. Mix 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup baking soda, and 1 tablespoon liquid dishwashing soap. If none of these are available you can use vinegar diluted with water, which also helps clean the pet and remove the smell.
While wearing rubber gloves, rub the De-skunking shampoo into your dog’s fur thoroughly with a washcloth. Make sure to also wash your pet’s face and mouth. But be careful not to get the solution into your dog’s eyes. Following this, rinse your pet from the solution, as the peroxide can bleach their fur. Afterward, use regular pet shampoo to clean and rinse your dog like a usual bath.
Raccoon Encounters
Raccoons are natural scavengers that love to pick through trash. But they also love to chow down on pet food left in the backyard. If you bring food out for your pet, be sure to bring it inside when you and your pet go in. While raccoons will often flee instead of fight, they can be aggressive if threatened or cornered. Raccoons have sharp claws and teeth and aren’t afraid to fight dirty. They are also more prone to aggression while suffering from rabies. Encounters with raccoons can lead to serious injuries to your pet. Raccoons commonly carry rabies and other diseases that your pet can contract. Raccoons suffering from rabies will also be much more aggressive.
Snake Encounters
The type of snake your pet encounters can determine how dangerous an interaction is. Some snakes rely on a venomous bite, while others may constrict foes. Some will just bite and flee if threatened by a cat or dog. If you do not know what type of snake bit your pet, assume it is venomous. Interactions with snakes can be incredibly dangerous and should require an emergency vet visit.
Squirrels and Other Rodents
Cats and Dogs alike will often watch squirrels and other rodents from the windows of your home. It is not uncommon for pets to attack and even kill rodents when outside. Unfortunately, rodents can carry a wide assortment of diseases, pathogens, and parasites that could be harmful to your pet. Even non-lethal encounters with a rodent can leave your pet with bites, scratches, or parasites.