Keep Your Pet Safe from These Springtime Hazards

It’s officially springtime! As the chilly winds of winter give way to spring’s lush breezes and comfortable days, keep your pet’s safety in mind. Here, a Hudson Valley, NY vet tells you about some of the most common spring pet hazards and how to keep your companion healthy and happy.

Parasites

Spring is prime-time for dangerous pests like fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and worms to start coming out of the woodwork. You’ll want to keep your pet protected to avoid an infestation or infection, because it’s far easier to prevent the problem ahead of time rather than deal with it after the fact! For most pets, a quality flea-and-tick preventative and a heartworm medication will ward off all pesky critters that pose a threat. Talk to your vet if your pet is in need of these products.

Allergies

The human members of your family aren’t the only ones who might start suffering from spring allergies this time of year. Cats and dogs, too, can react to substances like pollen, dust, dirt, mold, and more! Pets can also be allergic to ingredients in their food. If you find that your pet seems to be sniffling and sneezing a lot as spring continues, it’s time to see the vet. Allergy medications can be prescribed that will help your pet feel more comfortable.

Toxic Plants

You’re probably excited to start gardening as the weather warms up, or you might be looking to update your landscaping. Just make sure that your pet doesn’t have access to anything harmful. There are all sorts of plants and flowers—lilies, rhododendron or azalea, philodendron, dieffenbachia, ivy, oleander, elephant ear, certain aloe plants, tulips, daffodils, the sago palm, and more—that can harm your pet! Consult the ASPCA’s site to find a full list of toxic and non-toxic plants so that you can keep your companion safe.

Cleaning Supplies

Are you planning on doing a bit of spring cleaning this year? Keep in mind that all sorts of household chemicals and cleaning products aren’t safe for pets. It’s not likely that your pet will seek out a cleaning product to drink, but it’s not worth exposing him or her to something harmful, either. Store cleaning supplies carefully and move pets elsewhere if you’re using chemicals that give off strong fumes.

For more advice on your pet’s springtime safety, contact your Hudson Valley, NY vet clinic. We’re here for you!