Four Factors to Consider When Looking After Your Dog in Spring

Dog ownership is a profoundly positive and enriching experience, and one that millions of households across the country enjoy; today, nearly two thirds of UK homes have welcomed in man’s best friend, and are all the better for it. But with spring just around the corner, looking after your dog might become a little trickier. Here are four seasonal hazards to keep an eye out for in order to keep your dog safe this springtime.

Diet and Allergies

Your dog’s diet is something you will already be well-versed in handling, but the spring can bring new challenges to ensuring your dog remains healthy – in particular, the Easter holidays. Chocolate is known to be toxic to dogs, and so the prevalence of Easter eggs and other treats during that period can increase the risk of your dog ingesting some and falling ill. Many dogs are also sensitive to certain other foodstuffs, or may present with allergies; as such, choosing a dog food created for sensitive stomachs would be a safe bet year-round, not just for springtime.

Plants

Being the inquisitive sort, dogs are likely to come across a variety of plants – whether on walkies, or simply playing in your garden. But the spring brings about the flowering of certain flora that can be poisonous to dogs. Daffodil bulbs are potentially fatal to dogs if ingested, as can any part of a wild cherry tree – meanwhile bluebells and buttercups can be harmful if eaten in excess. Keeping a close eye on your dog in unfamiliar territory can help mitigate the risk of illness from toxic plants, and some light gardening can ensure any potentially dangerous flowers are removed.

Worm and Flea Prevention

Worms and fleas are a potential problem for dogs all year round, but can be exacerbated by the warmer season. On walks, you’ll see more dogs around thanks to the more clement weather, and your dog will be more likely to socialise with other animals – increasing the chances of getting fleas. Tapeworms and roundworms also favour spring temperatures, meaning eggs are more prevalent in grass and animal dung.

Prevention is the better than cure in this instance, as flea infestations can be tough to remove and worm infections can cause irreparable damage. Regular visits to the vet can be helpful, while diligent attention to your dog’s hygiene can also help avoid introduction of parasites.

Household Cleaning Products

With the dawn of spring comes the dusting off of an annual ritual for households: the spring clean. Between the de-cluttering of cupboards and the dusting of wardrobe-tops, you’ll be using a lot of cleaning products to get your house spring-ready. Naturally, these products contain chemicals that are dangerous to humans, let alone to dogs. Make sure your dog is never left unsupervised in w room where cleaning products are out, and do your best to wipe down any cleaned surfaces to ensure no products remain.