Springtime With Fido

Spring has finally sprung! As we say goodbye to another cold winter and start pulling our warm-weather gear out of storage, many of our canine pals will be enjoying the warmer weather. Just be sure to keep your dog’s health and safety in mind! Here, an Oconomowoc, WI vet discusses spring with dogs.

Spring can be quite dangerous to Fido! Easter candies, such as chocolate bunnies, are one major concern. Chocolate contains caffeine and a substance called theobromine, which are both toxic to dogs. Many holiday decorations are also dangerous. For instance, those pink and green plastic strips you find in Easter baskets can cause choking or intestinal blockages if ingested. Of course, holiday trappings aren’t the only thing that can pose a risk to our furry buddies. Some other things to be aware of include sudden increases in temperature, wild animals, pollen, melting ice, and foliage.

As the weather warms up, your canine buddy will exchange his winter coat for a lighter summer outfit. You know what that means: dog hair everywhere! Luckily, there are some ways that you can minimize the amount of pet fur you find on your clothes and furniture. First, brush Fido daily, so you catch that fur with a brush before it gets stuck to your sofa. (Tip: take your pup outside for his beauty sessions when it’s warm enough. That way, the extra fur will just blow away.) We also recommend vacuuming daily.

This is a great time to go through Fido’s belongings! Wash your pet’s bedding and doggy clothes. Ideally, you’ll want to use hot water and unscented detergent, but you’ll need to check labels for specific care instructions. Check your pet’s food, treats, and medicine, and discard anything spoiled or outdated. You’ll also want to go through your pup’s toy box. Wash toys that still look relatively intact, and replace anything torn or stained.

When the weather heats up, fleas and ticks will start coming out in droves. Keep up with your furry pal’s vaccinations and parasite control!

Take advantage of spring’s balmy weather and treat Fido to a long walk, or perhaps a visit to a doggy park. What better way to spend a balmy afternoon than with your canine buddy?

Please contact us, your Oconomowoc, WI vet clinic, for your senior dog’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!