Behavior

The weather is getting warmer. What should I do to make sure my pets - and my plants - are safe?

Any outdoor play area for dogs or cats should be dog or cat-proofed similar to how you would child-proof your yard if you have small children. Anything that might be hazardous should be removed (trash cans, gardening instruments, chemicals- weed killer, insecticides, anti-freeze) or otherwise made inaccessible (i.e. a swimming pool). Similarly, a cat or dog should never be left unsupervised when outside. Even if the animal is unable to leave the yard it usually doesn’t take much for someone or something else to enter the yard. Animals have been stolen, poisoned and even attacked on their own property.

There should be access to shade and plenty of fresh water and a warm, dry covered shelter for when the weather is cold or wet. It isn’t advisable to leave food outside as the food can easily degrade in high temperatures and can also serve as an attractant for wildlife or other stray animals. A yard does not have to be fenced but if the animal will be let off-leash then a fence is advisable as even the best trained dog has been known to take off after some novel stimulus and may become lost or injured if there are roadways nearby.

The type of fence or enclosure often depends on the type of animal being contained. There are special outdoor enclosures and fences for cats with cat-proof netting at the top to prevent escape. Chain-link fences come in various heights as some dogs are known to jump even a 6-foot fence and some dogs are known to be adept climbers.

Underground fencing products are also available. Invisible Fence Brand™ has been keeping pets safe for over 35 years. A supporter of the RVSPCA, Invisible Fence Brand™ has the knowledge and expertise to give pet owners the products, technology and advise necessary to provide a total peace of mind while keeping pets at home.

Any enclosure should be regularly surveyed for gaps or inconsistencies that might allow for escape. All pets should have a form of identification in case they should escape and become lost. Tags and collars are most commonly used but even they can become easily separated from your pet. A microchip is a more permanent means of identification. The RVSPCA holds quarterly microchip clinics that are open to the public at a nominal fee. The next clinic is scheduled for October 24th at Downtown Roanoke's Elmwood Park in conjunction with the annual Howl O'Ween Walk for the Animals. Most shelters and veterinarians will routinely scan stray animals for a microchip.

There are a variety of plants that can be toxic to both cats and dogs. Some common ones include azalea, rhododendrum, yew, and oleander bushes. A more comprehensive list can be found at the ASPCA website www.aspca.org .

It is possible to maintain a garden with a pet in the yard. Appropriate training, supervision, and containment are recommended to prevent destruction to a garden and to keep your pet safe.

Why does my pet do what he does?

Animals, like people, all have distinct personalities and sometimes their behavior can drive us crazy!!

At the RVSPCA, we have an animal behaviorist on staff with the knowledge and experience to assist you with most any behavior issue you might be facing with your pet. The information is available to help you to build a life-long bond with your pet(s). Follow the links below, and if you would like additional information, please send your questions to the behaviorist, or call 540.339.9508.

Dog Behaviors
The Benefits of an Educated Dog
The Canine Escape Artist
Canine Rivalry
Children and Dogs: Important Information for Parents
Crate Training Your Dog
Destructive Behavior in Dogs
Developmental Stages Of Puppies
Dog Toys and How to Use Them
The Fearful Dog
Helping Your Dog Overcome the Fear of Thunder and Other Startling Noises
Housetraining Puppies
How to Solve Digging Problems
How to Use a Head Halter
Inside or Out? - Making Your Dog Part of the Family
Introducing Your New Dog to Your Resident Dog
Nothing in Life is Free
Re-Housetraining Your Adult Dog
Puppy Chewing
Separation Anxiety
Spare The Rod to Train Your Pet
Submissive or Excitement Urination
Successful Cleaning to Remove Pet Odors and Stains
Why Dogs Bite: a Guideline for Children
Understanding Aggressive Behavior in Dogs