Huntington Beach, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/07/2016 -- Many owners enjoy dressing up pets of all types on National Dress Up Your Pet Day, which will be held this year on January 14, 2016. However, according to the experts at Crossroads Animal Emergency, dress up can quickly change from a fun activity to a dangerous one for pets if certain safety rules are not observed. "Having fun dressing up your pet should always be done with observance of basic safety rules," note Crossroads Animal Emergency experts.
First, these experts note that any costume must allow the pet to continue to wear proper identification. "Without identification, it could be harder to find a pet's proper owner, since not all pets are microchipped," they note. "This is particularly important if you are taking the pet to any type of event." Further, costumes should not restrict normal movement, including eating, using the toilet, sleeping and playing. Finally, a costume should never cause a pet to overheat.
Additionally, Crossroads Animal Emergency experts note that owners should be careful not to allow a costume to obstruct a pet's vision, hearing or breathing, or to irritate skin, fur or feathers. Costumes with small parts that could present a choking hazard should be avoided, and animals in costume should never be left unsupervised. Animals have shredded and choked on costumes in minutes when left alone by their owners. They have also become stuck on something due to the costume which could lead to injury.
Finally, a pet's needs and wishes should be considered. "While many pets don't mind getting dressed up - some do," said the experts at Crossroads Animal Emergency. "If your pet is in an outfit and is uncomfortable or showing signs of anxiety, the outfit should be removed immediately." Signs to watch for include panting, scratching at the outfit, ceasing movement, placing the tail between the legs, barking or growling, hiding and anything that seems to be unusual behavior for a pet.
Injured or sick pets can receive immediate treatment at Crossroads Animal Emergency. Call immediately if an animal is injured or ill.
About Crossroads Animal Emergency
With locations in both Norwalk and Huntington Beach, Crossroads Animal Emergency is a convenient and professional emergency veterinary service that can help dogs, cats and other pets who are sick or injured during non-traditional veterinary office hours. The team at Crossroads works with patients to ensure top-quality care and positive outcomes for every animal.
Contact:
Bryan Buescher, Vice President of Operations
Crossroads Animal Emergency
18364 Beach Blvd, Huntington Beach, CA United States 92648
714-794-6900
info@crossroadsanimal911.com
http://www.crossroadsanimal911.com