It's January again and we find ourselves going through all of our documents and receipts to prepare for tax season. This is the time that we use the most convenient item in our household to destroy the papers that we no longer need.
Did you know that a simple paper shredder can be very dangerous to your pet(s) or child? A curious dog trots over to the paper shredder to check it out and all of a sudden as your pet is licking the top of the shredder (dogs lick to get the scent) the dog's tongue is pulled into the shredder. There are documented articles on pet owners facing this particular medical emergency issue.
If you find your pet's tongue in a shredder:
- Unplug it immediately
- Try to get the tongue out, but only if it doesn't do more damage
- Transport to vet (along with the top of the shredder if need be) immediately
Dogs have bitten off their tongues trying to free themselves, which of course makes it even more dire of a medical emergency. Yes, dogs have learned to adapt without a tongue to eat and drink, but why should they.....if the shredder was unplugged or turned off in the first place, there would be no medical emergency that a pet owner would have to face.
Pet owners have to think of their home as they would with a baby/toddler in the house. In my home, I have to "Willa-Proof" everything...nothing on counters.....all appliances turned off, etc., because I have a dog that gets bored so easily.
So, at this moment, walk over to your paper shredder and turn it off or more importantly unplug it. After all, a dog can accidentally turn it back on with his/her nose.
I wouldn't wish this type of medical nightmare on any animal or child.
