Pet Tips

For the Month of March 2009

Spring Tips

Pet owners during the spring season need to know the pet hazards that could cause problems for animals. Some things to consider:

Be Careful While Spring Cleaning:  While you're busy dusting the mats, scrubbing down the basement or pulling the dent out of your couch cushion your pet(s) can escape through an open door or window.  This is how pets are lost, injured, killed or even stolen.  If your pet is unaltered it may also result in an unwanted pregnancy.  Make sure your pet(s) has one or more identifiers just in case (ie.  tattoo, microchip, license or tag).

Outside Dogs:  If you're leaving your dog outside during the day, make sure it is not barking, and has adequate food, water and shelter.  Barking can be disruptive to neighbors and may result in a monetary fine.  With more interesting sights, sounds and smells outside, your dogs energy and activity will increase.  He will need more food and water to keep him going and good dry shelter for those cold spring rains.

Time to get Active!:  Spring is a great time to increase your pets activity, especially if they have been less active in the winter.  Camping, swimming, hiking or even just going to the park and playing fetch are great activities to keep both you and your pet healthy. 

Stay on the Sidewalk:  Avoid walking your dog in areas that you suspect have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals as poisonings increase during the spring and summer when gardens, lawns and trees are sprayed.  If you suspect your pet has been poisoned call your vet or the ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435. 

Be Courteous to Others:  When taking your dog for a walk, don't forget to take a bag and 'stoop and scoop'.  Failing to remove your animals defication can result in a monetary fine and/or neighborly disputes.

Dogs in Pick-up Trucks: It is never appropriate to transport a dog in an open pick-up truck.  If your truck hits a bump, or if you step on the brakes suddenly or swerve to avoid an obstacle, your dog can easily be thrown from the truck bed and onto the road. Chances are, this will injure or kill your dog. But even if it doesn't, being struck by another vehicle probably will. Also, other drivers may cause an accident by swerving to avoid hitting your dog.

Pets in Cars:  As the weather gets warmer, be aware of the potential hazards of leaving your pet in your vehicle while running errands.  The temperature in the vehicle doubles from the outside temperature.  Consider leaving your pet at home where it will be comfortable and have access to water.

Spring Check Up:  Take your animal to the vet for a spring or early summer check-up including a test for heartworm and make sure your vaccinations are up to date.

Grooming:  A clean coat can help prevent summer skin problems, decrease dander and lessen shedding.  If your dog or cat has thick heavy fur all year round, you might want to consider shaving for the warmer months ahead.

Animals and Chocolate:  Did you know that chocolate, even in small amounts, can be lethal to your pet?  Make sure to keep Easter treats out of your pets' reach!