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Crafts You Can Make for Your Local Shelter

July 15, 2021

There’s a pretty fun holiday coming up. National Craft for Your Local Shelters Day is July 21st. At any given time, there are millions of sweet, lovable pets in shelters, hoping to get adopted. If you’ve adopted one or more of your furry friends from a shelter, you’ve already made a huge difference. Of course, adopting a pet is a long term commitment, so it’s not something to take lightly. However, there are other, simpler ways to help … like making crafts! A Washington DC vet lists some simple things you can make below.


 Catnip Mice

Catnip mice are quite easy, and they’re always popular with Fluffy and her pals. These don’t even have to be shaped like mice. Just cut two pieces of fabric to the same shape and size. Put one on top of the other, with the outsides facing in, and sew them together around the edges. Just leave a small hole, which you’ll use to put the catnip through. Then, seal it up. Done!


Cat Tower

Cat towers provide kitties with lookout points, scratching posts, napping spots, and jungle gyms. You can make one by upcycling an old stepladder. Just add some wide planks for Fluffy to sprawl out on. Then, cover the whole thing in carpet or sisal rope.


Beds

There are several ways to make pet beds. You can turn an old sweater or sweatshirt into a bed. Start by folding it into an O shape. Sew the torso closed, and then attach the sleeves to the torso. Put stuffing in through the neck, and sew that closed. You can also make pillow-type beds: the method is the same as the one described above for catnip mice. You just need more material, and some stuffing. (Speaking of stuffing, be sure to use a non-toxic kind.)


Rope Toys

Rope toys are lots of fun for Fido! Cut a towel or tee shirt into thin strips. Braid the strips together, and then braid the braids together. When the toy is thick enough, tie it off with a big knot.


Kitty Tents

You can make a cute kitty tent out of an old t-shirt and some wire hangers. This is a great option for timid cats! You can find step-by-step instructions online.


As your Washington DC veterinary clinic, we’re here to help! Please feel free to contact us anytime!

Poison Prevention Week starts March 20th. This is a very important topic for anyone with pets. There are over 232,000 cases of pet poisonings in the US every year! Our furry friends don't know what is and isn't safe for them, so you'll need to take some precautions to keep your beloved pet safe. A Washington DC vet lists some ways to prevent pet poisoning in this article. Keep Cabinets Locked Many toxic chemicals and household products are stored in cabinets, often underneath sinks. Keeping these locked is a simple step that can prevent tragedy. Keep in mind that your four-legged friend doesn't have to actually eat or drink these substances. Because most animals lick themselves clean, they only need to walk through it or get it spilled on their fur to ingest it. Choose Non-Toxic Plants Plants are one of the most common culprits when it comes to pet poisoning. While there are many that are dangerous to all pets, others are more toxic to some animals than to others. For instance, lilies are extremely dangerous to cats, while Sago palms are a huge risk for dogs. Check the ASPCA site here for a list of safe and unsafe plants. Know The Warning Signs Although the signs of poison ingestion can vary, depending on the pet and the type and amount of substance involved, there are some common red flags to look for. These include vomiting, drooling, lethargy, agitation, restlessness, trembling, collapse, unusual vocalizations, and diarrhea. Pale gums are also a warning sign, as is a rapid heartbeat or shallow breathing. Cats may withdraw, while dogs may pace or whimper. It’s worth noting that while these things can be indicative of many medical issues, they should always constitute a call to the vet. Understand The Dangers It's also important to know what is and isn't poisonous. Some things, such as household chemicals, antifreeze, and rodenticides, are well-known. Others? Not so much. For instance, many people don’t know that a single grape or raisin can be extremely dangerous to dogs. Medication is also a common source of poisoning. Ask your vet for more information. Training This one applies more to dogs, of course. However, consider teaching Fido to Leave It. This simple command could help prevent tragedy! Do you have questions about your pet's health or safety? Contact us, your Washington DC animal clinic, today!

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