Discussing The Many Springtime Threats That Can Be Harmful To Your Pets And Offering Advice On How To Protect Them From Such Dangers
Spring is a season of renewal and excitement, not just for us but for our furry friends too. As the temperatures rise and nature begins to bloom, pets typically become more active and curious. However, with this increased activity come several potential hazards unique to the season. Here’s a guide to keeping your pets safe while they enjoy the springtime.
Toxic Plants
The Spring season brings not only nice weather, but a burst of color with blooming flowers and plants. However, some of these flowers and plants can be dangerous to pets. Here are some commonly found springtime flowers that are toxic to pets:
Lilies:
Extremely toxic to both dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, heart problems, and kidney failure.
Tulips & Daffodils:
The bulbs of both tulips and daffodils can cause severe gastrointestinal issues in both dogs and cats if ingested. Other common side effects include irritation in your pet’s mouth & stomach, drooling, and diarrhea.
Azaleas and Rhododendrons:
These commonly found springtime flowers are pretty, but very toxic to dogs and cats. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, drooling, seizures, and even potentially fatal heart issues.
Before planting or bringing new plants indoors, check if they are safe for pets. The A.S.P.C.A. has a comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants. To read the full list, click here.
Be Mindful of Allergies
Just like humans, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies. More specifically from pollen. However, every pet is unique, so what a pet is allergic to will vary on a case-by-case basis. The most common sources of seasonal allergies include tree pollen, grass pollen, ragweed pollen, and mold.
Some common allergy symptoms in pets include excessive scratching, excessive licking, irritated skin, watery eyes, and nasal discharge. If your pet shows signs of allergies, consult your veterinarian. They may recommend antihistamines, special shampoos, or dietary changes to alleviate symptoms.
Flea & Tick Prevention
As the weather gets warmer, fleas and ticks become more active. These parasites can cause a range of problems from mild irritation to serious diseases like Lyme disease or flea allergy dermatitis. The best thing you can do to keep your pets safe from these parasites is to take preventative measures.
Use vet-recommended flea and tick preventatives such as topical solutions, oral chews, or collars. Regularly check your pet’s fur and skin for any signs of these pests, especially after walks or outdoor play. For more information about flea & tick prevention, click here.
Seasonal Cleaning Products
A common springtime tradition is that of Spring cleaning. However, Spring cleaning often involves using various chemicals and cleaning products, many of which can be toxic to pets. More specifically, products containing bleach, ammonia, or phenols are particularly hazardous to pets.
When using these cleaning products, ensure areas are well-ventilated and keep pets away until surfaces are dry and the smell has dissipated. Additionally, it’s also important to properly store these cleaning products in an area that is out of your pet’s reach, such as a high shelf or locked cabinet. Also, you can invest in pet-safe cleaning products to do your Spring cleaning with. To learn more about pet-safe cleaning products, click here.
Hazardous Garden Products
Besides the plants and flowers themselves, there are other things in your garden that can also be hazardous to pets. Fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides can all be harmful if ingested by pets. Even "organic" products can pose risks to your pet’s health and well being.
Therefore, we recommend using pet-friendly garden products and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines strictly. To learn more about pet-safe lawn care, click here.
Outdoor Hazards
With the lure of fresh air and sunshine, pets are more likely to explore when outdoors. However, this can expose them to various outdoor hazards. Examples of outdoor hazards to pets include potholes/uneven ground, encounters with wild animals, and high trafficked roads.
The best way to protect your pets from these outdoor hazards is to always supervise them when they’re outside. This is especially important when in unfamiliar or potentially hazardous areas like trails or parks. Additionally, ensure your yard is clean, well maintained, and secure before letting your pets outside.
Staying Hydrated
As the weather warms up, pets need more water to stay hydrated. Both dogs and cats sweat differently than humans. Dogs and cats sweat through the hairless parts of their body, like their paws. Because of this, it’s more difficult for them to stay cool compared to people.
Therefore, it’s imperative that you provide plenty of fresh water for your furry friends during Spring. Place multiple water bowls throughout your home and refresh them at least twice a day. Also, you can put a water bowl outside for when your pets are outside, but avoid putting it in direct sunlight. Lastly, consider bringing a portable water bottle or collapsible water bowl for pets during walks or outdoor adventures.
Protect Against Parasites
Besides fleas and ticks, there is another harmful parasite that threatens your pets during Spring. More specifically, heartworms. Heartworms are spread by mosquitoes, which makes them a significant risk in the spring and summer months. Therefore, it’s important to administer veterinarian-prescribed heartworm prevention medication regularly. Mosquito repellents made specifically for pets can also help.
Schedule a Spring Vet Check-Up
Lastly, it’s a good idea to have your pet seen by your veterinarian during the Spring season. A springtime check-up can ensure your pet is healthy and ready for the new season. Also, your vet can provide advice tailored to your pet’s specific needs, including any necessary vaccinations or treatments. Additionally, use this opportunity to discuss any concerns and make sure your pet is up-to-date on all preventive care.
Making Safety A Priority
By being aware of these springtime dangers and taking proactive measures, you can ensure that your pets enjoy the season safely. A little precaution goes a long way in keeping our furry companions happy and healthy during the vibrant months of spring.
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