Keep Your Pets Safe During the New Season
Here at Animal Hospital of Crested Butte, our goal is to help you keep your pets safe and healthy all year long. Every season presents its own dangers. That is also true during the transition to spring. While the warmer weather and blossoming flowers are exciting, spring can also present some unique challenges for pet owners. The good news? With a bit of awareness and some preventive measures, you can avoid most springtime hazards.
Here’s a roundup of safety tips from a Crested Butte veterinarian to help your pets thrive during the spring season!
1. Beware of Flea and Tick Season
Warmer temperatures signal the start of flea and tick season. These pests are more than just a nuisance—they can cause serious health problems for your pets, from skin infections to Lyme disease and even heartworm disease.
What You Can Do:
- Make sure your pet is on a year-round flea and tick preventative.
- Check your pet for ticks after outdoor activities, especially if they’ve been in tall grass or wooded areas.
- If you find a tick, remove it properly using a tick remover or tweezers. Watch for symptoms or unusual behavior, and contact your vet if you’re concerned.
2. Watch Out for Springtime Allergies
As much as we love the beauty of blooming flowers, pollen and other allergens can cause discomfort for pets, especially dogs. Just like humans, pets can develop allergies. The most common culprits are pollen, mold, and even dust.
What You Can Do:
- Keep your pets inside during peak allergy times (early morning and evening).
- Wipe your dog’s paws and coat after outdoor walks to remove allergens.
- If your pet is showing signs of allergies (itching, sneezing, ear infections), consult your vet for advice.
Ask your Crested Butte vet for more information.
3. Protect Your Pet from Toxic Plants
With flowers and plants in full bloom, be mindful of the plants you have in your home and garden. Certain spring plants, such as lilies, azaleas, and daffodils, can be toxic to pets if ingested.
What You Can Do:
- Familiarize yourself with the toxic plants in your area and avoid planting them near your pet’s favorite hangouts.
- Keep your pets away from plants while they’re blooming.
- If you think your pet has eaten a toxic plant, contact your vet immediately for guidance.
4. Don’t Forget About Sun Protection
Spring means more sunshine and longer days, which is great for outdoor activities with your pet. But just like humans, pets can get sunburned, especially those with lighter-colored fur or thin coats.
What You Can Do:
- Limit your pet’s time in direct sunlight, particularly during the hottest parts of the day.
- Consider using pet-safe sunscreen on areas like your pet’s nose, ears, and belly if they have light skin or thin fur.
- Keep your pets hydrated and provide plenty of shade during outdoor play.
5. Spring Cleaning = Pet Safety
As you tackle your spring cleaning, be mindful of the cleaning supplies you use. Many household cleaners contain chemicals that can be harmful to pets if ingested or inhaled.
What You Can Do:
- Choose pet-safe cleaning products whenever possible.
- Store all cleaning supplies out of your pet’s reach.
- Keep pets out of areas you are using any chemical products on. Allow areas to fully dry before letting your pets return.
6. Supervise Outdoor Play
Springtime often means more outdoor playtime, which can be great for your pet’s exercise and mental stimulation. However, outdoor play also presents new risks, from encounters with wildlife to injuries caused by jumping or running on uneven ground.
What You Can Do:
- Always supervise outdoor play, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Avoid letting your pet roam free in areas with high wildlife activity.
- Use a harness or leash during outdoor adventures, unless you are 100% sure that your canine pal will always obey vocal commands.
Conclusion: Spring is a season of renewal and excitement, but it’s also important to stay mindful of potential hazards. With a little preparation, you can ensure that your pet stays happy and healthy all season long. If you ever have questions or concerns about your pet’s health, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help you keep your pet safe during this beautiful time of year!
Happy spring, and stay safe!
Make An Appointment At Our Crested Butte Pet Hospital
Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your local Crested Butte animal clinic, anytime.
