Springtime Pet Safety Tips
Spring is a season of colors, flowers, and celebration after the cold winter months. While we look forward to happy, sunny days, it’s important to be aware of any pet safety risks that come with this change in weather. Here are some springtime safety tips to help prevent injuries or illness
Look out for Seasonal Allergies
Like humans, many dogs experience seasonal allergies. For dogs, seasonal allergies most often manifest as itchy skin or ear infections, but sneezing, runny nose, and red eyes can also occur. If you see your dog scratching or chewing themselves more than usual be sure to check their skin for rashes, blisters, wounds, or discharge. Depending on the severity of your pet’s allergies your vet may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications to help alleviate the symptoms.
Be Careful with Cleaning Products
Before you start your spring cleaning, make time to review the labels on your cleaning products. Even if the bottle says “pet-safe,” it’s wise to keep these things out of your dog’s reach. Keeping your pets away from the area you are cleaning is the best way to ensure their safety. It is important to never leave cleaning products unattended. If you believe that your pet has ingested or come in contact with any cleaning products always call your vet for advice immediately.
Watch out for Spring Plants
April showers bring May flowers, but did you know that some of these flowers can cause potentially life-threatening side effects when ingested? Toxic flowers include Irises, Daffodils, Hyacinths, and Tulips. Look out for gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and excessive drooling. Less common but extremely serious side effects include seizures, breathing issues, muscle tremors, organ failure, and changes in heart rate. Although all parts of these flowers are toxic, bulbs pose the greatest risk.
Keep Pests Away
Exposure to insects can cause a variety of different illnesses. Heartworm disease is transmitted via mosquito bite, can cause serious organ damage or death, and can be costly to get rid of. Tick bites can transmit a number of different infections, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Fleas can cause dermatitis, anemia, and tapeworms, and can be difficult to get rid of. Make sure that your pets are up to date on preventative medications/treatments for heartworm, fleas, and ticks.
Make Sure Your Pet Is Wearing Identification
Spring is the season for going out and enjoying the lovely weather. Make sure your pet has a collar with ID tags on when enjoying the outdoors. Microchipped pets are up to 50% more likely to be safely returned to their owners compared to pets without. Always keep contact information up to date. If your pet is not microchipped, please speak to your veterinarian to get one.
Keep an Eye on the Temperature
Dehydration and heat strokes are most common during the summer, and on especially hot days the pavement can cause serious burns to your pet’s paws. Always make sure that your pet has access to water and shade when outdoors, and never leave your pet unattended in a warm car. Temperature can rise quickly, which may result in deadly conditions.
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Springtime Pet Safety Tips
Springtime Pet Safety Tips Spring is a season of colors, flowers, and celebration after the cold winter months. While we look forward to happy, sunny