Is Your Pet Ready for Spring?

Author Tim Staskiewicz

March 18th, 2021 6:00 AM

We’re all pretty excited for the spring, even more so this year after we’ve been cooped up more than normal because of the pandemic. But as thrilled as you might be to get outside a bit more, your pets – especially dogs – are even more ecstatic.

Let’s get your pet ready for spring and make sure that Fluffy and Fido are prepared to enjoy the great outdoors this season safely!

Tips To Get Your Pet Ready for Spring

• Check That Identification

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  Being outside more means there's a higher likelihood that your pet could end up on an adventure. Make sure their tags are up to date and consider microchipping your cat or dog as an added protection. Also make sure your contact information is updated with the microchip provider if you already have one

• Ease Into Exercise

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  You're not the only one who may have put on a little winter weight. Your pet may have too. Just like with humans, too much too fast can be hard on your furry friends. Slowly increase activity, start out with short walks and runs and gradually work up to longer walks and more intense activities.

• Watch for Allergies

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  You've got allergies, and so does your pet. Keep an eye out for excessive scratching, red watery eyes, sneezing or hives. There's no prevention here, but your vet could prescribe an anti-histamine for your pet to help control some of the reactions and make them more comfortable.
• Check Your Screens

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  Open those windows and let the spring breeze blow in, but before you do, make sure those screens are intact and secure. You don't want any curious cats falling out or any adventurous dogs blowing through the screen to the great outdoors.

• Check Your Backyard

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  Before giving your pet free reign of your fenced in yard for the season, take a walk around and note any issues that need to be remedied. Check your fence for holes or damage that could make it less effective for containing your pet. Also note any potential hazards that may have popped up over the winter.

• Flea & Tick Control

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  With springtime and being outdoors more, comes parasites. Spending more time outdoors means bugs - ticks, fleas, etc. Talk with your vet about the different treatments and prevention of outdoor bugs.
• Spring Grooming

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  Ah the shedding of the winter coat! You can help that along with routine brushing. Don't forget to schedule a clipping/grooming appointment as the weather gets warmer.

• Beware of Outdoor Pesticides, Lawn Chemicals, etc.

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  Lawn care, pest control, even household cleaners during your spring cleaning spree can be potentially irritating or hazardous to your furry friends. Make sure you wipe down their paws after being outside on a walk, and watch to make sure they aren't munching on grass.

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Author Tim Staskiewicz

Category:

• The Sports Hub
• Wicked Spring Guide

Tags:

Cats,Dogs,getting ready,pets,Spring