Springtime is quickly approaching, and pet parents are definitely looking forward to nicer weather for walks and to enjoy time outside with their dogs. Freshpet reviews springtime safety tips for dogs and pet parents and notes that, despite how joyful the changing season can be, it is always a good idea to take the steps necessary to avoid dangers and help maintain your dog’s health. Here, Freshpet reviews a few springtime safety tips for pet parents who wat to ensure that their dogs have a safe, happy spring.
Be Mindful of Plants
While most pet parents know that certain plants are poisonous, it is great to watch your dog around plants that are known to be harmless as well. Reason being bone meal is a common fertilizer and supplement for planting bulbs, and eating the bulb and bone meal can make your dog very sick. Freshpet acknowledges that it can also be extremely helpful to brush up on your knowledge of what plants are poisonous to dogs just to be safe when your dog is out on walks or in the backyard.
Keep the Holiday Chocolate Out of Reach
Springtime is home to some of our favorite holidays such as Easter and Mother’s Day, both of which we often receive chocolate for. Chocolate is a delicious treat for us humans but, for our pets, it can be extremely toxic due to the fact that cocoa contains theobromine. For this reason, it is always important to keep chocolate candies out of reach from both your dogs and cats.
Watch Out for Fleas, Ticks, and Mosquitoes
One of the downsides to warmer weather is that fleas, ticks, and mosquitos start to set up shop in lawns, gardens, and forests. Pet parents should always be sure to keep fleas and ticks at bay with preventive medicines on their coats. Frontline and similar products are great at making your furry friend and unsuitable host for the worst pests. Failure to use year-round preventative measures can leave your dog vulnerable to diseases spread through bites such as Lyme disease, heartworm disease, and a host of other issues.
Make Sure Your Dog Doesn’t Get into Cleaning Products
With spring cleaning in full swing for many families during this time of the year, it is a good idea to ensure that your dog is not able to get into the cleaning products. Dogs may be attracted to some chemicals because of their smell, but aside from tasting horrible these chemicals can have a bunch of negative health implications if consumed. While spring cleaning, always keep your dog out of areas where you are using harsh chemicals and do not let them return until they are completely dry. If your dog likes to get into things, be sure that your cleaners are locked away and out of reach as well. Even explore pet-safe household cleaners while you are at it!
Know the Signs of Allergies
Some pet parents are surprised to learn that dogs can have allergies to plants and pollen during the spring just like us. Freshpet reviews springtime allergies in dogs and finds that it is important to know what signs to look for and when to consult your vet for help. Signs such as itchiness, watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and constant licking or biting can often be noticeable in dogs that have allergies. Luckily, a trusted vet can provide medicine and insights that will help your dog adapt to their allergies and have a great spring.