Pet Safety
Welcome to our Safety Section! This page is designed to help address health, safety and preparedness issues that have not been mentioned elsewhere on our website. Please take a look around and let us know what you think. If you have a pet safety topic that you think should be covered here, let us know!
Food, Toys, & Toxins
What is safe to feed your pet? What toys have been recalled from the market? Do you need to be worried about that plant they just nibbled on during your walk? For the answers to these and other questions, we have provided links to the most up-to-date information that will enable you to make informed decisions about your pet’s health.
Pets & Smoking
Is there a smoker living in your home? Secondhand smoke has long been discussed as a hazard to human health, but the truth is that it is also quite dangerous to pets of all shapes and sizes. Secondhand smoke has been linked to lymphoma and oral cancer in cats, and to nasal cancer, allergies, and heart disease in dogs – and it doesn’t end there! For more, please read the articles below:
Animal Poison Control
Did your pet eat chocolate? A poisonous plant? Your medication? There are potential pet poisoning concerns all around us—in our homes, our yards, barns, fields, etc. All too often pets are endangered as a result of their natural curiosity.
This free mobile app from the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) helps owners quickly identify over 300 potential everyday hazards, provides crucial information about the severity of the problem and critical next steps.
As always, if you ever have questions about something your pet has ingested or are worried about their behavior, please don’t hesitate to call us at: 703-631-9133.
“I wouldn’t take my dogs anywhere else. Dr. Pool runs a wonderful, caring place.”
Traveling with Your Pets
For general tips for traveling with your pet, including air travel, the American Veterinary Medical Association has put together this terrific brochure.
Many of us worry about our pet’s safety and well-being while they are traveling in the car with us. Will our furry friend be protected in the event of a car accident? What’s the safest way to travel?
Disaster Preparedness
The number one reason that people refuse to evacuate their homes during an emergency or natural disaster is that they are not willing to leave their pets behind. But with a little research and preparation, you can keep your entire family safe in the event of an emergency – even the four-legged members! When planning for an emergency, keep in mind that what is best for you is probably best for your pets as well.