Spring Hazards for Pets

Spring is a wonderful time of year, filled with blooming flowers, sunshine, and new adventures for you and your pet. Of course, here in Florida, we get to enjoy those things all year long. While spring in these parts may be more of a way to prepare for those sweltering summers than to say goodbye to snow and ice, there are still seasonal hazards for pet owners to be aware of. As your Longwood, FL veterinarians, we’ve seen plenty of springtime pet health issues, and want to help you keep your furry companions safe. Below are some of the top spring hazards for pets and how you can avoid them.

1. Toxic Plants and Flowers

Springtime brings beautiful flowers and plants, but some of these can be dangerous if ingested by your pets. Common spring plants, like lilies, daffodils, azaleas, and tulips are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. Eating even small amounts of these plants can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, organ failure.

What You Can Do:

• Identify any potentially harmful plants in your garden or home, and remove or replace them with pet-safe varieties.
  
• Keep your pets away from areas with toxic plants, especially when they’re flowering.
  
• If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your Longwood, FL vet immediately.
  

2. Fleas, Ticks, and Mosquitoes

Warmer weather means more bugs. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are active all year here, but this is a great time for reminders about the importance of parasite control. These pests can cause a variety of health problems, from skin infections to serious diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and heartworm.

What You Can Do:

• Ensure your pet is on a preventative flea and tick medication.
  
• Check your pet for ticks after outdoor activities, especially if they’ve been in wooded or grassy areas.
  
• Take measures to keep mosquitos away. Things like dumping that rain-filled bucket out and providing habitats for bats all help, and will help protect against heartworm, especially for dogs who spend a lot of time outside.
  

3. Allergies and Pollen

Just like us, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies, especially when pollen levels are high. Dogs, in particular, may exhibit symptoms like itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. In some cases, allergies can also cause more serious respiratory issues or lead to ear infections.

What You Can Do:

• Limit your pet’s outdoor activities when pollen levels are highest (usually early morning and evening).
  
• Bathe your dog regularly to wash away pollen that may be sticking to their coat.
  
• Talk to your vet about allergy treatments, which might include antihistamines or medicated shampoos.
  

4. Outdoor Hazards: Wildlife Encounters

Spring means animals like raccoons, skunks, and squirrels are more active, and your curious pet may encounter one of them during a walk or playtime. While these encounters can be exciting for your pet, they can also be dangerous. Wild animals can carry diseases like rabies or pose a risk of injury, especially if they feel threatened.

What You Can Do:

• Keep your pets on a leash during walks, especially in areas where wildlife is common.
  
• Avoid letting your pet interact with wild animals.
  
• Ensure your pet is up to date on their vaccinations to protect against diseases like rabies.
  

5. Hot Pavement and Sun Exposure

As the weather warms up, pavement and sand can get extremely hot, and can cause burns on your pet’s paws. Additionally, prolonged sun exposure can lead to heatstroke, especially for pets with short coats or light-colored fur.

What You Can Do:

• Test the pavement with your hand or foot before walking your dog to ensure it’s not too hot for their paws. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for Fido!
  
• Avoid walks during the hottest parts of the day (usually midday to afternoon).
  
• Always provide shade and fresh water during outdoor activities to keep your pet cool.
  

Spring is a season of growth and adventure, but it also comes with some unique risks for your pets. By being aware of the potential hazards and taking the right precautions, you can ensure your pet stays safe, happy, and healthy throughout the season. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, don’t hesitate to contact your local Longwood, F vets for guidance.

Here’s to a safe and enjoyable spring for both you and your pets!

Contact Our Longwood, FL Animal Clinic

Are you looking for a great vet in Longwood, FL? Is your pet due for an exam or vaccinations? Please feel free to contact us at any time. As your pet hospital, we are here to help.