WASHINGTON — After a long and snowy winter, most Washingtonians are welcoming spring with open arms. But your pet may not be ushering in the season with the same enthusiasm.
Spring is the start of flea and tick season, and the bugs are back in full force. Veterinarian Dr. Katy Nelson says if you haven’t ordered your preventive flea and tick treatments, now is the time.
“Truthfully, around here, I recommend that no matter how cold it is, you do that flea and tick prevention year-round,” Nelson says. “I have seen tick infestations in February with snow on the ground.”
Ticks aren’t the only thing that can make your pet sick this time of year — the budding flowers and blooming plants can have an impact on your pet’s health too. For example, Easter lilies are “extraordinarily dangerous” for cats if they chew on them, Nelson says. Even flower bulbs can be hazardous.
“Not only for them chewing on the bulb and what the bulb may contain, but also because dogs tend to swallow things, and a big old bulb in a GI tract is not a great idea,” she says.
How do you know what plants are safe to bring into your home and to plant in your garden? Nelson says the ASPCA’s Poison Control website is a great resource. It has a list of plants that are safe, and those that are toxic, to pets.
If your pet has a runny nose or watery eyes, pollen may be to blame. Nelson says similar to humans, pets experience seasonal allergies, too.
“These guys can display very similar symptoms to us — everything from itchy, watery eyes to runny noses.”
Skin irritations and ear infections are also symptoms of seasonal allergies. If your pet is experiencing allergies, Nelson suggests talking to your veterinarian. Treatments range from a simple therapeutic bath to antihistamines and prescription medication.
“It’s definitely something you can get control of, but you’re going to need to work with your veterinarian on that,” Nelson says.
Spring is the time of year when people clean their homes from top-to-bottom. Before you break out the scrub brush, think about how the cleaning supplies you use may affect your pet.
Toxic fumes, liquids and the residues they leave behind can all be dangerous. So when it comes to cleaning, Nelson’s best piece of advice is to think green.
“You can find these products that are out there that are safe, not only for your pets but also for your children. So rather than bringing in these high-chemical products, try to find some that are more vinegar-based or something along those lines.”
