Living with Pets in Vancouver –Sunrise: Common Hazards in the City and How to Avoid Them

1. Wildlife Encounters 

• Coyotes (often spotted near parks and alleys)
• Raccoons and skunks
• Pet safety tips for dawn/dusk walks
• Keeping cats safely indoors 

2. Poisonous Substances 

• Rodenticides and bait traps in alleys or shared buildings
• Toxic plants in shared gardens
• Antifreeze leaks or garbage in back lanes 

3. Urban Risks for Dogs 

 Off-leash dogs in on-leash parks (and what to do if approached)
• Broken glass, hot pavement, or salted sidewalks in winter
• Loud noises (e.g., construction, fireworks) causing anxiety 

4. Leash Safety in High-Traffic Areas 

• Importance of short, secure leashes on Nanaimo/Hastings
• Proper harnesses for strong pullers
• Why retractable leashes can be risky on sidewalks 

5. Cat Owners in Apartments: Hidden Dangers

• Balcony falls (“high-rise syndrome”)
• Plants or cleaning supplies in small spaces
• Risks of leaving windows unscreened