The spring months are known for bringing April showers, May flowers and lots of sunshine, but they also bring some not-so-obvious dangers to your pet. Here are some springtime safety tips for you and your furry sidekick to keep in mind as the seasons change:
Allergies: Just like humans, our furry family members can also have seasonal allergies when springtime plants start blooming and pollens begin swirling around in the air. Dogs and cats may have allergic reactions similar to those of humans, such as sneezing and coughing, but many pet allergies manifest themselves as skin problems. This often results in a pet that is very itchy, and can often lead to worse symptoms, such as hot spots, ear infections and more. If you suspect that your pal has any type of allergy (seasonal, food-related, etc.), talk to your vet immediately for a diagnosis.
Fleas: As the weather warms up and your dog becomes more active outside, fleas follow suit. For the health of your furry family members, you should keep them on a monthly flea treatment. Check with your vet on what type of flea treatment is best for your pet. If you would like a natural way to repel pests, while still utilizing your green thumb, here are some plants that repel the pests that bug your pets.
Plants and fertilizers: Springtime brings out the master gardener in many of us, but this also leaves our pets vulnerable to the dangers within our own fences. When you’re out feeding your plants fertilizer, be mindful that your pet doesn’t think it’s a treat for them, too. Most repellents are extremely dangerous if your pet consumes them directly, or licks them off their paws. An alternative to this is to look for “pet-safe” yard care products, or to find plant varieties that naturally repel pests, while still being pet-friendly. This is also a good chance to check out a list of poisonous plants, as noted by the ASPCA, to keep away from your pet.
Spring cleaning: With the season change comes the urge to do a deep clean of our homes, signifying the transition from a gloomy winter to a sunny spring. It also comes with responsibility, as many chemical-filled cleaners could end up spread throughout your house. Unless the product you are using explicitly states that the product is pet-friendly, it is in your and your pet’s best interest to follow proper storage directions, far away from where he can reach it. In the case that he does consume a harmful product, do not call poison control; instead, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Hotline (888-426-4435) immediately.
Learn more about the Everett Animal Shelter. Plan a visit, follow us on Facebook and Twitter and check out all of our adoptable pets. And be sure to watch our featured Pet of the Week on the Everett Channel.
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