Spring Safety For Your Pup
Apr 17, 2023
After a long winter cooped up indoors, you are most likely ready to take full advantage of the spring weather with your pets in tow! However, springtime could be full of hidden dangers for your pet if you don’t know where to look. Keep some of these extra precautions in mind as the temperatures increase and the days grow longer.
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Allergies: Springtime can bring a host of allergens that can affect dogs, just like humans. Pollen, dust, and grass can cause dogs to have itchy skin, runny noses, and watery eyes. Some dogs may even develop respiratory issues.
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Poisonous Plants: Springtime brings a lot of new plant growth, some of which can be toxic to dogs. Keep an eye out for plants like azaleas, lilies, daffodils, and tulips, as they can cause symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to more serious issues like kidney failure.
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Pests: With warmer weather comes the return of fleas, ticks, and other pests that can make dogs uncomfortable and even transmit diseases. Make sure to keep your dog's flea and tick prevention up-to-date, and be on the lookout for signs of infestations.
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Overheating: As the weather warms up, it's important to be aware of the signs of heatstroke in dogs. Dogs can overheat quickly, especially if they're exercising or spending time in direct sunlight. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, and lethargy.
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Spring cleaning hazards: Spring cleaning can also pose hazards for dogs. Cleaning products, especially those containing bleach or ammonia, can be toxic to dogs if ingested. Additionally, be careful when storing cleaning supplies or other household chemicals, as curious dogs may get into them and cause harm.