Seasonal Dog Tips

Spring Tips

Spring and summer months are a great time for you and your dog to enjoy the outdoors. However, the spring months can also present unique dangers and health risks for your dog. Here are some dog health care tips that will help ensure that your dog remains safe in the nicer weather.

Start with a "spring cleaning" grooming session. Get rid of excess hair, trim nails, clean ears…your pup will feel and look much better!

Spring is the perfect time to transition your dog to all natural, high quality dog food. Doing so can provide long lasting health benefits for your dog, may reduce the need for vet visits and may provide them with more energy through the summer months.

Monitor your dog’s tolerance of the direct sun very closely. Never leave your dog out in the sun too long as dogs can get sunburned just like people, so make sure there is a shaded area to sit and relax with your pet. Dogs can become dehydrated quickly, so provide plenty of cool, clean water.

Keep your dog free from fleas and ticks during the summer by using all-natural flea and tick treatments. Some of the flea and tick products that are sold over the counter are actually toxic and should be avoided at all costs. Speak with your veterinarian about holistic flea and tick solutions.

In the Spring, check with your veterinarian to see what they recommend in terms of heartworm prevention. Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and can be fatal. Heartworm disease is truly a silent killer and you can ensure that your dog stays heartworm free with just minimal prevention.

Be sure your pup doesn’t drink water from puddles or lick his paws when coming in for walks. All the bacteria that built up over the winter is now in standing water. Keep a towel near the door to dry off wet paws, and you’re less likely to have a pup with an upset stomach.

Make sure that your dog always wears a dog collar (or two!) and current dog tags including your phone number. Safety dog collars, such as reflective collars and illuminated dog collars also can keep your dog safe.

Although we think that fairs and concerts are a great bonding experience for us and our dogs, the noise and commotion can be stressful for your pups.  These are places that should be avoided for long periods of time.

Having a backyard barbecue? Always keep matches, lighter fluid, citronella candles and insect coils out of pets' reach.

When walking your dog, steer clear of areas that you suspect have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals. And please be alert for coolant or other automotive fluid leaking from your vehicle. Animals are attracted to the sweet taste, and ingesting just a small amount can be fatal.

Never leave your pet alone in a vehicle—hyperthermia can be fatal. Even with the windows open, a parked automobile can quickly become a furnace in no time. Parking in the shade offers little protection, as the sun shifts during the day.

Dogs love spring because it means lots of time outdoors. By keeping tabs on your dog’s health, you can make this a fantastic season for you and your dog.