Ease back into exercise:
If you and your pet have been taking it easy during the dark wet months it is best to gradually get fit together. Start with lead walks and shorter play sessions, and gradually work up to maximum activity. Too much too soon can lead to injuries and sore muscles!
Watch out for ticks!
Following this mild winter, be prepared for the appearance of ticks on our pets. In addition to being unpleasant they may transmit serious diseases such as Lyme Disease.
It is best to use a parasite control program that includes tick prevention so the beasties don’t even take a bite!
Spring showers bring spring flowers:
Our pets may be tempted to play with the novel and colourful garden flowers. Sadly many are toxic:
- Daffodils: eating any part of the plant can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and even possible cardiac problems.
- Tulips & hyacinths: the bulbs contain very irritant chemicals – so make sure your dog isn’t digging them up. Signs of poisoning include drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea.
- Spring Crocus: can cause general gastrointestinal upset inc. vomiting and diarrhoea.
Springtime means spring grooming!
Keeping your pet clean and groomed helps them to shed their winter coat. Brushing removes dirt and spreads natural oils around the coat, preventing tangling/matting & keeping skin clean. Different breeds require different brushes, so be sure to select the right brush for your pet.
No matter what kind of grooming you are doing, it’s always good to keep sessions short and enjoyable. When grooming, be sure to focus on a different part of your pet each time, and most importantly, after every good session, give a spring treat!
by Jacky Macqueen