At long last the trees are beginning to sprout leaves and the grass really is becoming greener. As you begin to plan warm-weather adventures and spend more time outdoors, it’s easy to forget that Spring brings hidden dangers for our dogs.
With a little bit of extra care, you can ensure your pup can finally end his cabin fever and stay safe while doing so.
1. Ticks and fleas
Two of the biggest dangers to our dogs during spring and summer are actually quite little. Ticks and fleas are parasitic insects that feast on the blood of our dogs. Spring is when these pesky little creatures awaken and begin to flourish – particularly in warm, wet environments. By the time you realize your dog has ticks and/or fleas, it can be too late. Fleas can quickly infest your home and other pets, while ticks can transfer their various diseases in just a bite.
To play it safe, use a flea and tick treatment recommended by your vet before the warm weather hits and then every month after, or as directed. After all, the best defense is a good offense. You can even take it one step further by getting your dog vaccinated for Lyme disease, an illness commonly spread by ticks.
2. Toxic plants
Flowers are one of the best parts of spring. Their colorful blooms are a welcome reprieve from the grey depths of winter. However, some pretty gardens may pose a serious risk to your dogs. Flowers like daffodils, begonias, foxglove, tulips and even hostas are hazardous to dogs. Consumption of these plants can cause nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress.
Make sure your dog does not have access to any of these plants by using secure gardening barriers.
3. Fertilizer and Pesticides
To go along with that blooming garden is the use of fertilizer and pesticides to keep it growing nicely. However, these can often be toxic to dogs causing similar symptoms as the toxic plants – but sometimes worse if not caught early. If you’re going to be using fertilizer or pesticides this spring, or live in a development where they will be used, it’s best to keep your dog away from the affected area for several hours to days after the fertilizer/pesticide is used. This gives the formula time to dilute and lessens the chance of a reaction.
If possible, use clean or natural fertilizer and pesticides for your lawn and garden care.
4. Stinging and Biting Insects
If flowers are blooming then bees and other insects are back as well. A curious dog may encounter a low-lying wasp or bee nest when poking around the backyard or along the trail. It just takes a brief encounter to send them swarming after your pup and delivering some painful stings. Quickly removing bee and wasp nests in your yard is a good way to prevent any accidental encounters.
If your dog is stung or bitten by any insect, take note of any swelling and check it consistently for signs of continued swelling/irritation. Allergic reactions can happen quickly and it’s best to be prepared to visit your vet if needed.