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There's a palpable excitement as we step into the warmth of spring (with two and four feet). As a professional pet sitter, I can share the sunny, warm walks are my favorites. Nothing is more inspiring than walking our furry friends alongside the waterfront path. The flowers blooming offer a promise of warmer days. However, while we embrace this vibrant season, it’s essential to prioritize the safety of our furry friends. Pets enjoy the sunshine like we do but face unique risks when the temperatures rise. Here are some tips to ensure your pets stay happy and healthy outdoors.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is vital for your pet’s health, especially as temperatures climb. Did you know that pets can dehydrate in the heat within a few hours? Always make sure they have access to fresh, clean water. A self-circulating fountain might be just the right idea for warmer weather.
When you take your pet for walks, carry a portable water bowl and encourage them to drink every 30 minutes. If your dog spends time outside, check their water bowl frequently. Key signs of dehydration include excessive panting, dry nose, and lethargy.
Protect Against Heat
Heat-related illnesses pose a serious threat to pets. Heatstroke can occur when pets are left in the sun or are exercising too vigorously in high temperatures.
To keep your pet safe, avoid walks during peak heat hours—aim for early mornings or late evenings. I bet you will appreciate the walk all the more, too! Always seek shaded areas during playtime, and apply pet-safe sunscreen on exposed skin areas, such as the nose and ears, to protect against sunburn.
Observe your pet's behavior closely. If they show signs of distress—such as heavy panting, drooling, or confusion—move them to a cooler location immediately.
Examine Your Yard
With spring's arrival, gardens can transform both beautifully and dangerously. Certain plants, such as azaleas (the entire plant), Day Lilies (the entire plant is toxic to cats), and daffodils (bulbs), can be highly toxic to pets.
Inspect your outdoor space for these harmful plants and remove them if necessary. Creating a pet-friendly garden might involve setting up barriers or choosing non-toxic flowers. Regular yard inspections can prevent accidents.
Pets can Develop Allergies
Spring can also be challenging for pets with allergies. Like humans, pets may react to increased pollen and dust.
Signs of allergies in dogs and cats might include excessive scratching, biting at the skin, sneezing, or even watery eyes. If your pet shows these symptoms, consult your veterinarian to determine the best treatment. Approximately 10% of pets are affected by seasonal allergies, making it a significant concern for many pet owners.
Keep Up with Preventative Care
Spring is an ideal time to schedule a routine veterinary check-up. As fleas and ticks become active in warmer weather, prevention becomes crucial.
Discuss preventative treatment options with your vet, as these can protect your pet from infestations and serious diseases like Lyme disease. Regularly check your pet for signs of ticks or fleas after outdoor activities, as early detection is key to preventing problems.
Socialize Responsibly
As temperatures rise, socializing pets in outdoor spaces is tempting. However, always be attentive to your pet’s comfort.
Some pets may find busy parks overwhelming. Start by gradually introducing your pet to new social environments. Training them on basic commands, such as "sit" and "stay," can help manage their behavior in crowded places, ensuring their safety and comfort.
Prepare a Safety Plan
In case your pet goes missing during spring outings, having a safety plan is essential.
Microchipping your pet and ensuring they wear a collar with up-to-date identification can significantly improve your chances of a quick reunion. Create a pet safety kit—include essential items like food, water, a basic first-aid kit, and any medications. Being prepared can make all the difference when adventure calls.
Roughly 30 days till the official start of spring!
I hope these practical safety tips were helpful. As flowers begin to bloom around the island and the hours of sunshine expand, the Aunty Mins Team looks forward to sunny wolf walks and cat pop-outs, and so do your furry friends. Your family's safety is our priority.