Though a lot of things may look different this spring due to the pandemic, there are some things that will stay the same – like springtime hazards that can lead to trouble for your pets. Check out our 7 tips for staying safe this spring with your companion animals.
Tips for your pet heading into Spring
- Walk your dog. As long as physical distancing can be maintained between yourself and other people, going for a walk in your neighbourhood or on local trails will be a great benefit to you and your pet! Make sure to watch for bulbs and blooming plants that may be toxic to your pet.
- Keep dogs on leash. In addition to preventing your pet from getting lost, keeping them on a leash will allow you to guide them away from people and pets to ensure you can maintain a six-foot distance and stay safe. With snow melt, this also helps you keep an eye on your dog to make sure they don’t get into anything they shouldn’t that may be surfacing under the snow.
- Beware of salt: When the ice and snow are melting, this creates salty water, even if roads haven’t been salted recently. When you’re on a walk, it may just look like sand, but there’s actually salt mixed in. Salt can act as an irritant; if it dries and irritates your pet, they’ll start licking it, which can make them sick.
- Make sure identification is up to date. Make sure your dog or cat has a microchip for identification and wears a tag your relevant contact information.
- Window screens. Many pet parents welcome the breezy days of spring by opening their windows. Unfortunately, they also unknowingly put their pets at risk—especially cats, who are apt to jump or fall through unscreened windows. Be sure to install snug and sturdy screens in all of your windows. If you have adjustable screens, make sure they fit tightly into window frames.
- Speak to your veterinarian about flea and tick season. Your pet can be exposed to fleas at any time of year, especially when the winters are milder. Fleas can be picked up anywhere, including; dog parks, on trails, or anywhere an infected dog has been. Though adult fleas feed off the bodies of animals, they jump off to lay their eggs and can move easily from animal to animal. Ticks are ground-dwellers, so they jump from low shrubbery, or the ground to latch onto your pet. They are usually found on the body parts of your pet that sit closest to the ground: neck, head, around the ears, the front part of the chest, and the underside of the chest. Consult your veterinarian to find out the best flea and tick medication for your pet.
- Watch for wildlife. Spring means wildlife is more active and waking up. With the beginning of mating season, it means soon litters will start being born. Be vigilant on your walks and do your best to avoid disturbing wildlife.
More resources
Here are a few more resources you may find helpful navigating the Spring season with your pets!
Spring Pet Checkups – What you need to know!
How to safely remove ticks from your pet
Spring grooming: How to bathe & brush your dog
Video
