Living in SW Missouri means enjoying the beauty of nature, but it also means sharing the outdoors with local wildlife. While many animals prefer to avoid humans and pets, encounters can happen, sometimes leading to injuries, disease transmission, or other risks for cats and dogs. As a responsible pet owner, knowing how to protect your furry friends is essential.
Common Wildlife Threats to Pets
SW Missouri and the surrounding areas are home to a variety of wildlife that can pose risks to pets.
Raccoons: Can be aggressive if cornered and are carriers of rabies and parasites.
Coyotes: Opportunistic predators that may view small pets as prey.
Skunks: Known for spraying but can also carry rabies.
Opossums: Usually non-aggressive but may spread parasites such as fleas and ticks.
Snakes: Certain species can deliver painful and potentially dangerous bites.
Bats: Small but risky, as they can transmit rabies through bites or scratches.
Safety Tips for Pet Owners
Supervise Outdoor Time
Never leave pets unattended outdoors, especially at dawn, dusk, or nighttime when wildlife is most active. If your yard isn’t fully enclosed, accompany your dog outside and keep cats indoors whenever possible.
Secure Your Property
Wildlife is often drawn to easy food sources. Keep garbage cans sealed, don’t leave pet food outside, and consider installing fencing or motion-activated lights to deter unwanted visitors.
Keep Pets on Leashes
When walking your dog, always use a sturdy leash. This reduces the risk of sudden encounters with wildlife and keeps your pet under control.
Stay Current on Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention
Make sure your pets are up to date on rabies, distemper, and other essential vaccinations. Use veterinarian-recommended flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives to safeguard against diseases wildlife can spread.
Recognize Signs of Wildlife Activity
Look for tracks, droppings, torn-up lawns, or noises in your attic or crawlspace. These can indicate animals are living nearby, increasing the chances of a pet encounter.
Train Pets to Avoid Wildlife
Simple commands like “leave it” or recall training can help prevent dangerous chases or confrontations.
Pet Behavior Changes to Watch For
Sometimes, your pet may signal a wildlife problem before you notice it yourself. Be alert to sudden changes in their behavior, such as:
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Excessive barking, growling, or hissing at certain spots in the yard or near the home.
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Unexplained injuries like scratches, puncture wounds, or limping.
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Increased scratching or licking, which may indicate flea, tick, or parasite exposure.
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Heightened anxiety or restlessness, especially after being outdoors.
If you notice these warning signs, inspect your property for wildlife activity and consult your veterinarian to rule out any health issues.
When to Call Wildlife Control
If you notice wildlife frequenting your yard, hear animals inside your attic or crawlspace, or suspect a rabid animal is nearby, it’s time to call a professional. Trained wildlife control specialists can safely and humanely remove animals while helping you secure your property to reduce future risks.
Keeping Pets Safe
Your pets are part of the family, and protecting them means being proactive about wildlife risks. By supervising outdoor activities, securing your property, and working with experts when needed, you can create a safer environment for your furry friends.