It might not feel quite like spring yet, but rest assured: warmer breezes and pretty greenery are on their way! It’s important to keep your pet’s safety in mind when spring rolls around. Below, your Savannah, GA vet tells you more about some common springtime hazards and how to help your pet avoid the danger.

Allergies

Do you find yourself sniffling and sneezing more during the springtime? You may not be the only one. Pets, too, can suffer from seasonal allergies to multiple substances, like pollen, dirt, mold, dust, and more. It’s also possible for pets to suffer from food allergies. If your pet seems to be exhibiting allergy signs this season, let your veterinarian know—medications can be given to help your pet feel more comfortable as spring rolls on.

Toxic Plant Life

Now that your pet might be spending a little more time outdoors, it’s important to remember that many plants and flowers aren’t safe for our animal companions. The list includes rhododendron, philodendron, certain aloe plants, elephant ear, oleander, dieffenbachia, daffodils, ivy, tulips, lilies, the sago palm, and many more! Check out the ASPCA’s site to find a full list of toxic and non-toxic plants for pets, and check your garden, landscaping, and flower arrangements or bouquets indoors to make sure you’re not harboring something harmful.

Parasites

One of the most troublesome springtime hazards comes in the form of outdoor pests like fleas, ticks, and parasitic worms like heartworm, roundworm, and hookworm. It’s far easier to prevent these problems ahead of time rather than deal with them after the fact. That’s as easy as keeping your pet up-to-date with preventative medications. Talk with your vet to set your pet up with a flea-and-tick preventative and a heartworm medication. In most cases, these measures will protect your pet against all offenders.

Cleaning Chemicals

Doing a little spring cleaning this year? Remember that just about all cleaning chemicals aren’t safe for pets. While your pet isn’t likely to seek out a cleaning solution to drink, it’s possible for them to lick at spilled chemicals or be affected by strong fumes. It’s safest to keep pets elsewhere when cleaning with strong chemicals, and be sure to store cleaning supplies safely where pets can’t reach. Does your pet need a veterinary checkup as spring arrives? Set up your companion’s next appointment with your Savannah, GA vet clinic. We’re here to help!