Spring brings colors, flowers, and celebrations, but also pet safety risks. Here are spring safety tips:

Watch for Seasonal Allergies

Many dogs experience seasonal allergies, often showing itchy skin or ear infections. Look for excessive scratching, rashes, or discharge. Your vet may suggest medications.

Be Careful with Cleaning Products

Review cleaning product labels before use. Keep these items out of your dog’s reach and never leave them unattended. If ingested, contact your vet immediately.

Watch for Toxic Plants

Some spring flowers, like Irises and daffodils, can cause severe reactions when ingested. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially severe outcomes like seizures. All parts of these plants, particularly the bulbs, are toxic.

Keep Pests Away

Insects can transmit various diseases, including heartworm and Lyme disease. Ensure your pets are current on preventive medications.

Ensure Identification

When outdoors, make sure your pet wears a collar with ID tags. Microchipped pets are more likely to be returned. Keep contact information updated.

Monitor Temperature

Watch for dehydration and heat-related issues. Ensure pets have water and shade outside; never leave them in a hot car. High temperatures can be deadly.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Dog from Coughing?

Make sure your furry friend is vaccinated against Bordetella, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus, and remember to chat with your vet about the Canine Influenza vaccination.

Watch who your dog interacts with while enjoying the day. Exercise caution at dog parks, walking trails, dog-friendly stores, vet offices, grooming places, daycares, and boarding facilities. Remember to maintain a safe distance from other pups, as this is a respiratory illness.

Become familiar with the signs of these diseases: cough, fever, green nasal discharge, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

Assess if your dog might be at high risk for this illness, especially young puppies, senior dogs, flat-faced breeds like pugs or bulldogs, or pets with existing heart or lung conditions. If your dog falls into the high-risk category, minimizing dog-to-dog contact is wise.

Take a deep breath! Sticking to your dog’s routine helps keep stress at bay. Dogs need fresh air, exercise, nutritious food, rest, love, and attention.

Build a good relationship with your veterinarian before an emergency arises!