6 Springtime Safety Tips for Dogs

Spring has sprung! While many look forward to this season as it means colorful blooms and the reduction of clutter, some aspects of this season present dangers to our dogs.

Here are some common spring dangers and how to keep your dog safe:

1. Even with all the attention the cocoa bean gets, chocolate still ranks as the number one pet poison according to vets across the USA. This time of year, chocolate may be wrapped in the form of a heart-shaped token of affection meant for a loved one or it may be waiting outside a child’s bedroom on Easter morning. Regardless, it could soon be inside your dog’s stomach. Learn the details about chocolate poisoning here.
2. Even if the Easter baskets in your home are not filled with chocolate, the fake grass in Easter baskets is notorious for causing gastrointestinal obstructions in pets.
3. Plastic eggs and unpeeled hard-boiled eggs are also favorites for dogs to eat and can cause GI complications or obstructions, not to mention some really pungent gas.
4. Spring-cleaning even solely with products labeled “natural” doesn’t mean your pets are free from harm. When cleaning, keep pets secure and away until all cleaning substances are dry and out of paws’ reach.
5. If your dog has been less active during the winter, be sure to work your way into an exercise plan gradually. This will help him rebuild muscle tone and cardiovascular health before he’s allowed to engage in strenuous outdoor activities. This will prevent your pooch from developing exercise-related injuries.
6. Just like you, your furry companion can have allergies to the plants and pollen’s of springtime. Spring and autumn are the peak seasons when most pet parents notice an increase in their pet’s chewing and scratching. Don’t be alarmed if your pet develops a new itch, but do seek veterinary advice.

Taking a few precautionary steps can insure a healthy, enjoyable spring for you and your dog.