With Spring around the corner, we look at the dangers this new season poses for our dogs.
Fleas and Ticks
As a rule of thumb, fleas and ticks tend to hatch five to six weeks after the weather starts to warm up between March and June.
Adult faecal matter looks like black dirt – check for black specks on your dog’s fur and bed.
Ticks look like smooth blisters and usually attach themselves where hair is thinnest – on the ears, abdomen and face.
Prevent infestation by:
- using a vet-recommended product.
- vacuum frequently – carpet, car, furniture…everywhere!
- keep grass short and gardens tidy – free from clippings and leaves.
- wash frequently – blankets, bedding, anything your dog lays on – wash on the hottest water temperature.
Grooming
Spring is the perfect time for stripping and grooming your pup.
Spring’s a rainy season and your pup will, no doubt, bring in a lot of mud after a lovely long walk.
Keep a towel and brush by your back door to wipe down and brush out any mud before they come in from the outside.
This also acts at preventing any little nasty insects or bugs being dragged into the home.
Vaccinations
What with an increased transmission of diseases in warmer weather, Spring’s the perfect time to do a routine worming treatment and check all your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.
Dogs should be vaccinated against:
- Canine Parvovirus
- Canine Distemper
- Canine Parainfluenza
- Infectious Canine Hepatitis
- Leptospirosis
- Rabies (if travelling abroad from the UK)
Spring Cleaning
It’s the perfect time of year for clear-outs, deep spring cleans and the completion of that much-needed DIY project.
Make sure your cleaning products, chemicals and any DIY hazards such as nails, power tools and blades are stored well-away from precious paws and curious canines.
Cleaning products are toxic and will poison your pooch if ingested.
If you suspect your dog’s been poisoned contact your Vet immediately.
Allergies
The arrival of spring brings blossoming flowers and growing insect populations. Which, in turn, brings an increase in allergies.
- Atopic allergies are caused by inhalation of pollen, mould or dust.
- Flea allergies are caused by the protein in the flea’s saliva when it bites your pup.
Dogs can react in different ways – from sniffling and scratching to anaphylactic shock.
If your dog’s suffering from any allergies it’s imperative you visit your Vet for treatment.
Mosquitoes
While not a major concern in the UK, if you’re travelling to Southern France, Italy, Spain and the Mediterranean you need to be aware of mossies.
Mosquitoes carry the heartworm parasite.
This roundworm (commonly known as heartworm) travels from the bite and attaches itself to the blood vessels in the lung.
Heartworm can cause serious lung complications or in extreme cases, death.
We recommend your dog takes vet-recommended medication to prevent infestation.
Gardens and Fields
While you may work hard at making your garden lusciously green, insecticides, fertilisers and pesticides can be poisonous to your dog if ingested.
Like cleaning products, always store these away from prying pups.
Remove poisonous plants such as Crocuses, Lilies, Tulips, Daffodils, Snowdrops, Aconite, Narcissus and Hyacinths.
There are many poisonous plants in Spring – this is only a few of them. Do your research!
Walkies
Longer walks and hikes mean that there are more opportunities for your dog to wander off.
Ensure your dog is microchipped and is wearing a dog tag with your current contact details on.
Read up on what to do if your dog wanders off here.
Dehydration
Warm weather and long walks equal a thirsty pup.
Ensure your pup doesn’t suffer with dehydration by always carrying a full water bottle to regularly rehydrate.
Don’t forget that dogs also suffer from sunburn, so if you’re in direct sunlight for a long period of time remember to protect your dog’s skin with vet-recommended dog-friendly sunscreen.
A portable bottle like the Dog H2O will help keep your pup hydrated. Source
What other tips do you have? Share your ideas with our community in the comments section below.
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