6 Outdoor Pet Risks in Temecula to be Aware Of

Dr. Joe Alcorn, M.S., D.V.M.

Dr. Joe Alcorn is founder of Care Animal Hospital in Temecula, California. He has a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and his advice has been featured in large publications like Bustle and Martha Stewart.

Home » Blog » 6 Outdoor Pet Risks in Temecula to be Aware Of

Temecula is one of the most pet-friendly cities in the country. Most of its public areas are open to pets and the majority of the businesses there allow pets in their premises.  

Nevertheless, there will always be outdoor pet risks that you need to consider when you visit. It’s better to be aware of them and prepare accordingly rather than risk losing your pet. We’ve compiled a list of possible risks for your pets while in Temecula that you should know. 

6 Possible Outdoor Pet Risks in Temecula 

In Temecula, it’s not surprising to see an increase of people bringing their pets when they go out for dinner, visit the market, or walk in the park or mall. There are a lot of businesses in Temecula that are pet-friendly like dog boarding and catering to other pets.

However, this could mean more exposure to outdoor risks. While in the city, your pets can face unfavorable weather conditions, harmful substances, infestations from other pets and even wild, dangerous animals. Watch out for some of these outdoor pet risks.

A group people approaching two dogs

Heat

Various weather conditions can be outdoor risks that you need to take into consideration with your pet. In Temecula, heat is what you especially need to pay attention to so your pet does not get heatstroke

When the weather is hot and dry outside, make an effort to keep your pets indoors and hydrated. When taking them on walks, try to go early in the morning or around dusk when it’s cooler. If you do notice that your pet has lower energy levels and is nostalgic, place a fan by them to cool them off and try giving them cold water to drink.

Fertilizers and Herbicides

Pets in the outdoors are likely susceptible to fertilizers and herbicides so you better watch out for them. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

  • Consider using organic or chemical-free remedies for your lawn or yard before you start using chemical alternatives. 
  • Store fertilizers and herbicides away from your pets.
  • Read the labels before application to know the right way. Overapplication can cause excess residue which your pets can pick up. 
  • Only let your pets walk on public parks that are pet-friendly

Insecticides and Pesticides

  • Insecticides and pesticides are more deadly and toxic for your pets. Store them away from the reach of your pets and in their original packaging. 
  • Dogs, in particular, can feel attracted to slug baits which contain metaldehyde (fatal to dogs). Symptoms of slug bait ingestion include:
  • “Pet-safe” slug baits aren’t all too safe. They contain iron phosphate and can lead to iron overdose. Although Iron phosphate is low in toxicity, too much of it can still upset the stomach. The symptoms might resolve around 12 to 96 hours but blood pressure and heart rate can lead to shock and cause death. 
An orange cat lying on the grass

Parasite Infestations

When your pet is always in public areas where there are a lot of other pets, chances are some pets may have fleas and pass them on to your pet. 

Making sure you clean your pet regularly and properly to keep fleas and ticks away. Remember flea and tick control products can also be poisonous if you use them improperly. Use products responsibly and read application instructions. 

Coyote Population

Coyotes also live around the Temecula area. Normally, they’re elusive to humans but will attack vulnerable pets if given a chance. Don’t let tour pet wander outdoors without your supervision. 

If you feed your pet outdoors make sure you empty the food dishes and remove them after eating. If you have an outdoor yard, make sure you supervise your pets if you want them to go out. Coyotes may transmit diseases to your pet like rabies. Vaccinate your pet as an added precaution

If you or your pet gets approached by an aggressive coyote, frighten it away by:

  • Shouting in a deep voice
  • Waving your arms
  • Throwing objects at the coyote
  • Look at it directly in the eyes

Rattlesnakes and other Venomous Animals

Temecula is brimming with wildlife and some animals there can be harmful to your pets. For example, rattlesnakes are common in the Southern California area and the number of rattlesnake bites has been increasing throughout the years. 

A group of people sitting on the grass with a dog

Rattlesnake bites can quickly kill a pet. It can happen fast and you sometimes won’t notice it on your pet. Having your pet vaccinated will bolster his/her body defense by the time you reach a hospital for treatment. 

Always remember to put safety first in your mind when walking your pet out especially on outdoor hikes and trails. Be especially vigilant from April to October as these are the months that rattlesnakes are active. 

Conclusion

Even the most pet-friendly cities have problems regarding pets. As a pet owner, you should be responsible when taking your pet outdoors. Some of the risks listed above are avoidable if we as pet owners are responsible and have proper control over our pets. Temecula is a great place for our pets. Let’s be responsible and preserve its reputation.