The weather is getting nicer which means our pets are getting outside more. There are a few things all pet parents should keep in mind when letting pets roam outside more regularly to ensure the pet’s health and safety.
There are many different types of plants to watch out for, which can be dangerous and could even be deadly to dogs and cats, such as tulips, lilies, and tomato plants.
Symptoms of consumption of most of these are typically vomiting and diarrhea, but some can worsen. Also, when gardening, be sure to buy a pet-safe mulch and steer away from selecting cocoa mulch which can poison a pet the same way that chocolate can.
Also, pesticides should be kept away from pets and that includes insecticides, and rodenticides as well. We see regular claims come through for rat poisoning and gopher bait ingestion. Symptoms of ingestion usually include vomiting, diarrhea, and/or drooling. It’s important to get your dog or cat to the vet immediately if you suspect ingestion of one of these poisons.
As springtime rolls around, it’s time to start thinking about flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives. Bugs are on the rise as the weather gets warmer, so it’s important to protect your pet by preventing flea infestations and other itchy buggers who could cause life-threatening heartworm.
And lastly, keep your pets hydrated! If they will be spending more time outside, make sure that they have plenty of fresh drinking water and shady places to hang out so that they don’t overheat. Never never never leave your pet in the car. Even if it’s only 70 degrees outside, temperatures inside the car can reach 120 degrees within 5-10 minutes.
See these tips and more at the York News-Times.
*Photo courtesy Mulatto Diaries
