SPRING HAS SPRUNG! TIPS & WATCHOUTS FOR DOG PARENTS
Dec 21, 2024 5:02:08 PM
SPRING CLEANING
As we clean away the bleakness of winter from our homes, we must be mindful of the dangers of cleaning products. Many products can be harmful to pets. Aways make sure they are stored out of reach. For example, shut the lid on your toilet if you use bleach and ensure you thoroughly rinse floors if cleaner has been used. These products are often toxic if swallowed or corrosive so could burn your pet’s paws.
If you suspect that your dog has come into contact with a cleaning agent, always consult your vet.
Keep your dog busy by using Trophy kibble or wet food in an activity toy to keep them occupied whilst you clean.
SPRING PLANTS
The first signs of spring are the appearance of flowers such as daffodils, tulips, crocuses and bluebells. Although they are attractive, they are poisonous to dogs especially the bulbs. Ivy is also toxic.
Always keep an eye on your dog when out walking or playing and if you suspect that your dog has eaten such plants, always consult your vet.
PARASITES
As the weather starts to warm up, parasites start to make an appearance. The main ones to watch out for are ticks. Ticks can be found in several places, especially long damp grass and can carry dangerous infectious diseases that can be passed on to both you and your dog.
Always check over your dog’s body, including their ears for ticks after they have been outside.
Ticks should be removed quickly and carefully, but if you’re unsure how to do this then you should always ask a pet care professional for advice.
Never try to burn the ticks off or smother them in lotions or petroleum jelly, as this could harm your dog and increase the risk of being infected by the diseases ticks carry.
SLUGS
Wet spring months are the perfect time for slugs and snails to come out and feed. Unfortunately, they all have the potential to carry the dangerous lungworm parasite. When your dog is exploring outside, they can end up eating or licking slugs, snails or their slime trails, increasing the risk of becoming infected by lungworm.
What are the signs of a lungworm infection?
Signs that your dog may be infected by lungworm include:
- Coughing
- Breathing problems
- Tiredness
- Taking a long time for cuts to heal
- Changes in behaviour
If you’re concerned your dog has been infected, speak to your vet immediately.
Slug bait
These substances are most often found in the form of pellets and are very attractive to dogs. There are several different types of slug bait which vary in toxicity. Some slug baits contain a substance called metaldehyde which is highly toxic to dogs. This chemical can quickly cause dogs to start fitting, which can lead to organ damage if left. You must seek veterinary help immediately if you suspect that your dog has eaten slug bait.
If using slug pellets, make sure they are safe to use around pets or use an alternative such as crushed eggshells.
ADDERS
These are the UK's only native poisonous snakes and are found in a wide range of habitats. Adders hibernate over winter and emerge in spring and are often found basking as the weather warms up. It is during this is the time when the risk of being bitten is at its highest as your dog may come across one while exploring the undergrowth.
How to tell if your dog has been bitten by an adder.
Signs that your dog has been bitten can include:
- Small puncture wounds
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Pain
- Lameness
- Dribbling
- Being sick
- Increased temperature
- Bleeding
- Changes to the heartbeat, blood pressure and breathing rate
What to do if your dog is bitten by an adder?
Dogs that are bitten should be taken to a vet as soon as possible. Do not touch the bite site prior to seeing the vet and do not apply tourniquets or attempt to suck out the poison, as this may cause further complications.
If you see an adder in your garden or when out for a walk, leave it alone. Adders are a protected species and it is illegal to harm or kill them.
Spring is a fantastic time to get out and explore with your dog. Hopefully our tips and advice will ensure you can safely have fun with your dog over the coming months and remember to contact your local Trophy Nutritional Advisor for any help and advice you may need with our recipes.
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