Keep your pet safe this spring with these helpful hints.
With springtime comes fresh air, budding flowers, and outdoor fun — plus some potential hazards for your pet.
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Pesky pests. Warmer weather means an increase in fleas, ticks, and heartworm. Be sure your pet is on a year-round preventative and check her for ticks after walking in wooded or grassy areas.
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2
Spring flowers. Beware of blooms that are toxic to your pet, such as lilies, azaleas, rhododendrons, and daffodils. They can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness, and can even be fatal.
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3
Gardening supplies. Fertilizers, insecticides, and even mulch can be toxic. Always keep lawn and garden products out of paw’s reach.
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4
Easter candy and decorations. Make sure your pet can’t get into candies, especially chocolate and sugar-free candy containing xylitol, which is highly toxic and can cause a host of health issues when ingested. In addition, springtime decorations like Easter grass can get lodged in your pet’s intestines if ingested, and small objects like plastic eggs are choking hazards.
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Spring cleaning supplies. Always keep household chemicals out of reach. Even all-natural products can be harmful to your pet, as they may contain irritants, fragrances, or dyes. Your best bet is to use cleaning products labeled as safe for pets on the bottle.
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Windows and doors. Check to make sure the screens in your windows and doors are securely in place before opening them to let the fresh air in. Also make sure there aren’t any holes in the screens. Cats in particular could jump or fall from a window without a secure screen.
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Puddles. Avoid stagnant water, which can be contaminated. Pets that drink from puddles could end up with an upset stomach or even a bacterial infection.
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With a little forethought, you can easily help your pet stay safe and avoid a trip to the vet. But if your pet does get into any of the hazards listed above or you notice signs of distress, like vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures, contact a veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 immediately.
