Spring Tips

If you are spring cleaning then keep harmful cleaning products away from your dog such as bleach, paint and plughole un-blockers.  It may be best to put your dog into a danger-free room while using these sorts of products.Here are some tips to keep your dog safe this spring so that you can enjoy the longer days and warmer weather together.

The Garden

Be aware of buzzing insects as allergic reactions vary in pets, just like in humans. If you notice that your dog has been stung then do not hesitate to contact your vet.

Plants such as daffodils, hydrangea, rhododendron, lilies and azalea can be poisonous to your fury friends. 

Symptoms can range from vomiting and diarrhea to seizures, low blood pressure and liver and kidney damage. 

Keep an eye on your dog when in the garden or when out on walks.

When using fertilizers be sure to read the labels carefully and adhere to instructions.

Do not let your dog out until all effects of the chemicals have worn off.

In The House

When coming back from a walk make sure to wash your dog down and give them a brush just in case your dog has caught any fleas.

Ticks thrive in the warmer months so don’t forget to check your dog especially if you have been walking through wooded or grassy areas.

If you need to remove a tick then I would recommend a tick hook to grab the tick by its head as firmly as possible – without pinching your dog’s skin – and remove it in a swift, rotating motion. 

Be wary of tweezers as they do not always fully remove the tick. 

If you not feel comfortable doing this then you can always visit your vet.

If you are spring cleaning then keep harmful cleaning products away from your dog such as bleach, paint and plughole un-blockers.  

It may be best to put your dog into a danger-free room while using these sorts of products.

Preventable Treatments

While it is important to keep your dog on flea and worm treatments it is essential during the warmer months when bugs are prevalent.

To protect your dog from viruses make sure that your dog is up to date on all relevant vaccinations such as parvovirus, leptospirosis and kennel cough.

Easter 

While we can enjoy chocolate eggs over Easter chocolate can be very dangerous to our dogs.

Theobromine in chocolate is the ingredient that is poisonous to our dogs.

Symptoms of chocolate poisoning will depend on the amount and type of chocolate ingested. Some of the common signs are vomiting, diarrhea, panting and extreme thirst. More severe symptoms can include muscle tremors, seizures and heart failure.

Make sure to keep all chocolate away from your best friend, if you think your dog has ingested chocolate then contact your vet immediately!

Seasonal Allergies

Just like humans dog’s can suffer from seasonal allergies caused from pollen, grass, flea bites and dust being the most common triggers.

Lesions on top or on the bottom of your dog’s feet can indicate environmental allergies. Other symptoms can include sneezing, hair loss, coughing, itchiness, licking and chewing.

If you feel that your dog has had an allergic reaction then consult your vet for appropriate treatment.

Micro-Chipping

If you haven’t already, get your dog micro chipped as from 2016 micro chipping became a legal requirement.

The process is quick, painless and dramatically increases your chance of finding your fury friend if they wander off a little too far.

As always, if something doesn’t seem right contact your vet. I hope you and your pets enjoy the run – up to summer. 

If you can think of any other helpful spring tips then leave them in the comments section below!