How to keep your pets safe this spring
As we jump into spring, flowers are blooming, wildlife is thriving and everything feels a little bit brighter. But with this comes a few increased risks for you furry friends.
Here are some tips to help you and your pets enjoy the great outdoors this spring, whilst keeping your pets safe:
Toxic plants
As the sun comes out from behind the clouds and the weather cheers up, our gardens begin to bloom. There are a few plants that you may find in your garden, or areas that you walk your dog, that are toxic to your pets and can can cause fatal outcomes if consumed. If you think your pet may have eaten a poisonous plant, contact your vet immediately.
Some of the common plants to be cautious of are –
Daffodils-
Daffodil flowers and bulbs are poisonous to pets if consumed, as well as the water, if they are in a vase. Consumption can cause lethargy, stomach upset and vomiting.
Bluebells-
Bluebells contain a toxin that affects the heart and can be fatal if eaten in large amounts. These are often found in wooded areas.
Tulips-
Tulips contain a toxin that irritates a pet’s gastrointestinal tract as well as their mouth and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea as well as excessive drooling.
Foxglove-
These plants are toxic for pets as well as humans and if consumed by pets, they can cause vomiting , seizures and abnormal heart rhythms that can be fatal.
Hyaciniths-
These plants are toxic to pets and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea as well as excessive drooling. If large amounts of the bulb or flowers are consumed, it can affect heart rate or respiratory rate.
Elderberry-
The ripe fruit of the elderberry can be rich in nutrients, however, the leaves , stems and roots are poisonous to pets, as they contain small amounts of cyanide. This can cause an upset stomach but can also lead to seizures and be fatal.
Lilies-
There are lots of different varieties of lilies, with most being toxic to pets if consumed. Consumption can cause abdominal pain, stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhoea.
There are many more plants that can be toxic to pets, if you have any concerns or think your pet may have consumed something poisonous, contact your vet immediately.
Animals
Spring time brings lots of wildlife out, and whilst it is wonderful to see new life blossom, there are risks to consider for your pets.
Adders can be a large risk to dogs in the warmer months as they often bask in sunny areas in verges and hedgerows, rocky areas or long grass. It’s important to supervise your pet at all times when on a walk and stick to frequently used paths to reduce your risk of coming across them, as adders will often avoid busy areas. If your dog is bitten by an adder, seek veterinary help immediately.
Farm Animals are also important to consider in the spring. Farm animals will start having turnout and may be grazing in fields with footpaths. Spring is also lambing season so there will be lots of young lambs in fields. It is important to keep your dog on a lead in areas with livestock to keep your dog and the livestock safe.
Bees and insects begin to emerge as the temperature rises and some can be a risk to your pet if they sting or bite. Bees will often be around plants and flowers in your garden, fields and hedgerows so its important to keep a distance and keep a close eye on your pets, to avoid the risk of them getting stung.
Flea and tick treatment
Fleas, ticks and worms can be a burden all year round, but there’s an increased risk in your pet picking them up in the warmer months. Fleas are often spread through wild rabbits so if you walk your pets in rural areas they may be at higher risk of picking them up, as well as ticks from long grass and hedgerows.
Easter chocolate
As we approach Easter, lots of us like a chocolate treat, but chocolate is toxic to your pets and can be fatal. It’s important to store all chocolate and sweets out of reach of your pets. If you think your pet has eaten chocolate, you should call your vet immediately.
Allergies
Just like us, our pets can have allergies too. This is particularly common in the spring, with plants and grass growing and pollen levels rising. Pet’s symptoms of allergies include itchy skin and ears, hair loss from scratching, irritated and inflamed skin, respiratory problems and watery eyes and noses. If you notice these symptoms in you pet, contact your vet for a consultation.
If you are concerned that your pet may have consumed something toxic, been bitten or stung or has any other issues, please contact your vet.
We are here to help 24/7, 365 days a year, to care for your pets. Ring 01749 343 955.
