Owning a pet offers immeasurable joy, companionship, and love. However, it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring their safety and well-being. Many common items found in our homes could pose significant poisoning risks to our furry companions. By understanding these hazards and how to prevent them, we can create a safer environment for our pets.

Key Household Hazards for Pets

Chocolate

Widely known but often underestimated, chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and more severe symptoms. As you’re filling Easter baskets or baking holiday treats, be mindful to keep chocolate out of reach and clean up any spills immediately.

Houseplants

Many popular houseplants are poisonous to pets. For instance, lilies can cause kidney failure in cats, and sago palms can be lethal if ingested by pets. This time of year, in particular, brings an abundance of lilies, tulips, and daffodils, so be extra cautious.

Medications

While medications are meant to help us, they can be dangerous for pets. Keep all prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs securely locked away from curious paws if you’re entertaining guests for holiday festivities, store handbags, coats, and other items that may contain toxins out of reach, as well. Never give your pet any medication without consulting a veterinarian first.

Cleaning Products

Household cleaners, such as bleach, disinfectants, and laundry pods, can cause severe chemical burns and respiratory issues in pets if ingested or inhaled. Always place these items out of reach of pets, and thoroughly rinse any surfaces where they’ve been used.

Trash and Unattended Items

The trash can is a treasure trove of potential dangers—from coffee grounds to spoiled leftovers to food packaging. Keep it securely closed and don’t leave any items unattended, as pets may be tempted to chew or ingest them.

Practical Prevention Tips

View Your Home Through Your Pet’s Eyes

Get down to their level and identify potential risks—place chocolate in unreachable places, ensure houseplants are out of reach, and keep medications locked away.

Secure Trash and Unattended Items

Ensure trash is inaccessible and routinely check bags, backpacks, and purses for any items that could harm your pet. Make a routine of placing these items out of reach when you come home.

Recognizing Symptoms of Pet Poisoning

Be vigilant for signs of distress in your pets, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and excessive drooling. Early recognition can make a significant difference in outcomes.

Emergency Actions for Pet Owners

In the unfortunate event that you suspect your pet has ingested a poisonous substance, prompt action is critical. Immediately call your veterinarian or a pet poison control center. Time is of the essence, and their guidance could save your pet’s life.

Maintaining a pet-friendly environment requires diligence and an ongoing commitment to their safety. By proactively identifying hazards and implementing preventive measures, we can vastly reduce the risk of pet poisoning. Remember, our pets rely on us for their well-being—it’s our duty to protect them.

For further information on pet care and emergency resources, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

We all wish for our furry friends to live happy, healthy lives by our side. But often overlooked in pet care is a critical area that affects their overall well-being: dental health. Just like us, pets’ teeth need regular attention to prevent discomfort, disease, and systemic health issues. In this article, we’ll provide you with five essential tips to give your pet the sparkling, healthy smile they deserve!

The Benefits of a Healthy Smile

The twinkle in your pet’s eye is often matched by the joy in their smile. But beneath the surface, dental issues in pets can lead to pain, infection, and even heart or kidney problems. Being proactive with dental health can add years of wiggly, wet-nosed companionship to your pet’s life.

Tip 1: Regular Brushing

Dental brushing is the gold standard for pet oral health. With a little patience and the right method, you can make it an enjoyable part of your pet’s routine.

• Technique: Start slow with just a finger to get them used to the sensation. Gradually introduce a pet toothbrush and toothpaste formulated for pets. Never use human toothpaste to brush your pet’s teeth.
• Frequency: Aim for a daily brushing session. Consistency is key to keeping teeth and gums in top condition.
• Tools: Soft-bristled brushes and enzymatic toothpaste made for pets are gentle options designed for delicate pet mouths.

Tip 2: Appropriate Dental Diet

What your pet eats significantly impacts their dental health. Choose their meals wisely to support strong teeth and gums.

• Dry Kibble: The crunch of kibble can be a good mild abrasive, helping to clean teeth as your pet chews.
• Special Formulas: Some pet foods are engineered with dental health in mind, designed to decrease plaque and tartar buildup. We can help provide suggestions which take into consideration your pet’s age, lifestyle and overall health needs.

Tip 3: Chew Toys and Dental Treats

Chew toys and specially designed treats can be your pet’s best buddies in the battle against plaque.

• Chew Toys: Tough rubber, nylon, or rawhide chews can provide a satisfying and tooth-scraping experience for your pet.
• Treats: Dental treats can be a tasty, effective way to reduce plaque and tartar.

Ask us about the safest options for chews and treats that will provide benefits to your pet’s dental health.

Tip 4: Professional Dental Cleanings

Despite your best efforts, some dental issues require professional intervention.

• Importance: Regular visits to a veterinary dentist ensure that both routine cleaning and potential issues are addressed promptly.
• Frequency: Your vet is the best person to advise on how often your pet needs professional dental care. Typically we recommend professional dental cleanings one time per year.
• Anesthesia: While it can be a concern, modern techniques have made it very safe for sedating your pet for thorough dental cleaning. This allows us to identify dental disease below the gumline and develop a comprehensive treatment plan specific to your pet.

Tip 5: Monitoring Oral Health

Knowing the signs of dental issues can help you catch and treat problems early.

• Visual Checks: Regularly inspect your pet’s teeth and gums. Look for signs of bleeding, bad breath, or swelling.
• Behavioral Clues: Changes in eating habits or excessive drooling can signal dental discomfort, prompting a closer examination.
• Regular Veterinary Visits: Your vet visit isn’t complete without a quick oral examination. Don’t hesitate to raise any dental concerns you might have, and reach out to us to schedule an appointment.

Your Pet’s Smile is Your Mission

Your pet’s dental care is a partnership between you and your trusted veterinarian. Implementing these key tips will not only enhance your pet’s quality of life but also save you from potential veterinary expenses in the future. Remember, their well-being is in your hands, from choosing the right dental diet to detecting early signs of trouble. So, scoop up that toothbrush and let’s give your pet the megawatt smile they were born to flaunt!

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also bring unexpected challenges for pet owners. As a veterinary team, we’ve seen our fair share of holiday-related pet emergencies, from tinsel ingestion to Christmas tree accidents. But with a little bit of preparation and foresight, you can help keep your pet friends safe and healthy this holiday season. In this blog, we’ll share some common holiday hazards for pets and offer practical tips for avoiding them.

Deck the Halls with Care: Managing Your Holiday Decorations

The dazzling lights, sparkling tinsel, and shiny ornaments that fill our homes during the holidays can be as captivating for our pets as they are for us. But some holiday decorations can also pose serious health risks to our furry friends. For example, tinsel, garland, and ribbon can easily cause intestinal blockages if ingested by pets. Likewise, breakable ornaments can cause cuts to your pet’s mouth or paws, and chewed electrical cords can cause burns or even electrocution.

To keep your pets safe during the holidays, make sure to secure all decorations, such as tinsel, garland, and ribbon, to prevent your pet from ingesting them. If you have a curious pet that likes to play with decorations, consider using safer decorations such as felt or paper products.

Oh, Christmas Tree: Managing Your Tree and Lights

Setting up the Christmas tree is a beloved tradition in many homes, but it also requires vigilance when it comes to pet safety. Pine needles, if ingested, can cause stomach issues for pets, and the water that keeps the tree fresh can also be toxic to your pet. Additionally, broken ornaments or lights can pose an electrical and choking hazard to pets.

To prevent these hazards, make sure to sweep up any pine needles that drop from your tree regularly. Also, consider covering the tree stand with a skirt or some other barrier to keep your pets away from the water. Finally, place ornaments higher up on the tree, and consider using shatterproof ornaments to help reduce the risk of accidental breakage.

If necessary, you may even want to block off the tree from pet access.

The Gift of Health: Protecting Your Pets from Parasites

In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be easy to forget important preventative care for your pets, such as parasite protection. Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites don’t take a holiday, and can make your pet miserable if not properly treated or prevented.

To keep your pet healthy, make sure to provide them with monthly parasite prevention according to your veterinarian’s recommendations. This can include oral or topical medications for flea and tick control and heartworm preventatives. By staying on top of parasite prevention, you can help ensure your pet stays happy and healthy all year long.

Share the Love: Spending Quality Time with Your Pet During the Holidays

Finally, one of the best ways to keep your pet safe and happy during the holidays is by spending quality time with them. Pets thrive on attention and companionship, and the holidays can be a perfect opportunity to show your pet how much you care. From going on walks to cuddling up on the couch for a movie marathon, there are plenty of ways to share the holiday spirit with your furry friend.

The holidays can be a joyful time for pets and their owners, but they can also pose unexpected hazards if not properly managed. By taking precautions such as securing decorations, managing your Christmas tree, staying on top of parasite prevention, and spending quality time with your pet, you can help ensure a safe and happy holiday season for everyone in your household. We wish you and your pets a joyous and safe holiday season!

As Thanksgiving approaches, we all prepare to indulge in festive treats and a hearty Thanksgiving meal. But as pet owners, we must remember that our furry friends should not indulge in the same way. This Thanksgiving, we have compiled a list of foods your pet should avoid. Read on to learn how to keep your pets safe while you enjoy a delicious feast.

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic, whether they are cooked or raw, are toxic to pets. Make sure to keep onions and garlic out of reach of your pets, and never feed food to pets that may contain these ingredients, such as stuffing or other side dishes. Symptoms of ingestion include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If you suspect your pet has consumed any food containing onions or garlic, seek veterinary care immediately.

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins are common in Thanksgiving dishes, such as stuffing or salads. However, consumption can lead to kidney failure, which can be fatal. Even small amounts of grapes or raisins can cause significant harm to your pet’s well-being. If your pet eats these items or foods containing them, seek veterinary care immediately.

Alcohol

Alcohol is present in many Thanksgiving drinks, such as beer, wine, and cocktails. However, pets should never consume alcohol, as they cannot metabolize it as humans do. Consumption can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and even coma or death in severe cases. Keep all alcoholic beverages out of reach of your pets, and ensure that your guests do the same.

Turkey Bones & Gravy

While turkey is a staple in most Thanksgiving meals, pet owners should be careful about what part of the turkey their pets consume. Turkey bones are a hazardous choking and intestinal obstruction hazard for pets. Turkey skin and gravy are high in fat content and can lead to gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea. Keep your pets away from the kitchen and food if possible, and always dispose of turkey bones safely away from your pets.

Hidden Hazard – Medications

With extra people visiting your house for Thanksgiving, be aware that curious pets may discover medications in handbags or coat pockets. Commonly used over-the-counter painkillers can have disastrous consequences for your furry friends. If you are hosting guests this holiday, be sure to remind them to keep all medications secured and avoid leaving bags or pockets accessible to your pets. Better yet, consider putting your pet into a quiet room away from the commotion and potential food hazards.

This Thanksgiving, ensure that your pets are not harmed by any food or drink that may cross their path. By being mindful and keeping these forbidden foods in mind, your pets will remain safe and happy throughout the festive season. If you notice any symptoms of ingestion or injury to your pets, seek veterinary care immediately. Remember, extra caution goes a long way in creating a happy and healthy holiday season. We hope you and your beloved pets have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!

Halloween is one of the most awaited events for kids and adults. The streets are filled with people wearing creative costumes, decorations are everywhere you look, and sweet treats and the scent of pumpkin spice fill the air. While it is a festive occasion, this can also be a time of stress and anxiety for our pets. Here are some tips on how to keep your pet calm during Halloween:

Halloween is fun for people but can be stressful for pets

Halloween is a time to celebrate with friends and family and have fun with spooky costumes, which is why most people look forward to this holiday. However, for pets, it can be a terrifying experience. Often, they get scared by the sudden appearance of strangers, loud noises, and unfamiliar smells, which can lead to anxiety or even aggression. It’s essential to keep a close eye on your pet when the festivities are happening outside, and even inside your home.

Costumes can be scary and uncomfortable for pets

While dressing up in costumes can be fun, your pets might not be on board with the idea. Most pets are not used to wearing costumes, and the sensory experience can be overwhelming for them. Noisy, and tight clothes can make them uncomfortable, anxious, or even frightened. Moreover, costumes that involve masks or hats can limit their vision and hearing, further adding to their fear.

Beyond costumes⸺other dangers for pets

While costumes are a significant part of Halloween, there are other dangers you need to be aware of when it comes to your pets. Here are some of the most significant threats you need to watch out for:

• Candy/Chocolate: Halloween treats are not safe for pets. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, can be toxic to dogs. Candy may contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs and can cause severe consequences such as seizures, vomiting, and even death.
• Candles: Candles and pumpkins make for excellent Halloween decorations, but they can be hazardous to your pets. Your pet may accidentally knock over the candle which could lead to injury or in the worst-case scenario, a fire.
• Excitement at the door: Trick-or-treaters knocking at the door can be a happy moment for people, but it might cause stress for your pets. The constant knocking, ringing, or noise can induce fear or anxiety in pets.
• Extra Noise: The loud noises from doorbells or people laughing and cheering outside the door can also be frightening for pets. These things may also cause behavioral issues like anxiety, fear, or stress in our pets.

How to create a quiet space for your pet

It’s essential to create a comfortable and safe space for your pet during Halloween. You can create a little corner for them in your home, with their bed, toys, and blanket. It should be a quiet room away from the front entrance. Also, consider adding white noise or calming music to soothe their nerves.

Halloween can be stressful for pets, and it’s essential to take action to ensure their safety. Be aware of the potential dangers that could harm your furry friend and take steps to keep them out of harm’s way. Creating a quiet space for them and avoiding costumes will make a significant difference in their stress levels. With these tips, you will have a safe and happy Halloween with your furry loved one.

As pet owners, we can attest that flea infestation can not only be annoying but also extremely dangerous to our pets. Fleas can cause severe skin irritation, and anemia, and even transmit deadly diseases. As we approach the fall season, it’s essential to be proactive in preventing fleas before they become a problem. In this article, we will discuss the flea life cycle, the dangers of fleas infesting your pet, signs to look out for, the benefits of flea prevention, and why you should purchase flea prevention medication from us, your trusted veterinarian.

Flea Life Cycle:

Fleas have a life cycle that consists of four stages; egg, larvae, pupae, and adult. The eggs can be found on your pet’s bedding, furniture, and carpet. Next, they hatch into larvae, which then feed on organic debris. After a week or two, they spin cocoons, where they become pupae and develop into adult fleas within five to fourteen days. Once the adult fleas emerge from their cocoons, they start feeding and reproducing.

Dangers of Fleas Infesting Your Pet:

Fleas can cause tremendous discomfort to your pet. Pets will continuously scratch and bite themselves, leading to skin irritation, hair loss, anemia, and infection. Fleas can also transmit diseases such as cat scratch fever and tapeworm infections to both pets and humans.

Identifying Signs of Fleas in Your Pet:

One of the primary signs that your pet may have fleas is excessive itching, particularly around their neck, hindquarters, and tail. Hair loss and red or inflamed skin are also signs of flea infestation. In severe cases, you may even see fleas jumping on your pet, but often the “flea dirt” (feces) is the best sign. Flea dirt looks like small black specks that can be found in your pet’s fur, and when wet, they turn a reddish-brown color as they contain digested blood.

How Flea Prevention Helps:

Flea prevention is the best way to protect your pet from flea infestation. Preventing them from gaining a foothold is much easier than treating a full-blown infestation. Consistent use of flea medication throughout the year is critical in maintaining your pet’s health and protecting your home from flea infestations.

Why Purchase Flea Prevention Medication from Us, Your Veterinarian:

With so many flea medication products available, it can be challenging to decide which one is best for your pet. However, we, as veterinarians, have the experience and knowledge of the different flea medication products, how they work, and which one is safest for your pet’s specific needs, especially given their health history. Additionally, we only sell products that are manufacturer-guaranteed to ensure quality. By purchasing from us, you can rest assured that you get authentic and properly stored medication for your pet.

As the fall season approaches, it’s essential to protect your pet from flea infestation. Fleas can cause immense discomfort to your pets and transmit dangerous diseases to both them and you. Identifying signs of flea infestation, understanding the flea life cycle, and investing in flea prevention medication is crucial in maintaining your pet’s health and preventing flea infestations. At our veterinary clinic, we only offer safe, effective flea prevention medication and can help you decide which one is best for your furry friend. We invite you to schedule an appointment with us and get ahead of fleas this fall season.

Back to school season is an exciting time for kids, but for pets, it can be the source of anxiety and stress. After a summer filled with playtime, cuddles, and attention, the sudden decrease in activity can have a profound impact on our pets. It’s common for pets to experience separation anxiety when their families head back to work and school, and it’s important for pet owners to recognize the signs and take steps to help their pets adjust. In this blog post, we will discuss some strategies to help your pets ease into a quieter home.

Identifying Signs of Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety can manifest in many ways, such as excessive barking, digging, chewing, pacing, or inappropriate elimination. Sometimes, the signs are more subtle, and pets can become lethargic, withdrawn, or refuse to eat. If your pet shows signs of separation anxiety, it’s important to recognize the problem and address it promptly.

Why it’s Important not to Scold Your Dog or Cat

Although it’s tempting to scold your pet for may at first appear as “misbehaving”, remember that punishment only worsens anxiety and can cause more stress. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and reward your pet with treats, toys, or praise for good behavior. Make sure your pet has access to comforting items such as their favorite blanket or toy, and work toward building a strong bond between you and your pet.

Pre-Plan for When School Starts

To help ease the transition, start preparing your pet before school starts. Begin to introduce your new routine by slowly changing your pet’s schedule, so that when your new schedule takes effect the transition will not be as abrupt. Make sure to incorporate a consistent daily routine that includes playtime, walks, and plenty of attention.

Solutions to Help After School Has Begun

Creating Structure for Your Pet

Establishing a regular routine is key when it comes to helping our pets adjust to spending more time alone. Create an environment that is calming and consistent, making sure to give your pet plenty of exercise, playtime, potty breaks, and cuddle sessions throughout the day.

Consider Doggy Daycare

Doggy Daycare can provide socialization and playtime with other dogs, which can be an excellent way to ease anxiety and boredom. If your pet isn’t comfortable in large groups, try a pet sitter who can come to your home to give your pet attention and company.

Increase Mental Stimulation Activities

Boredom is a major contributor to anxiety in pets, so try to incorporate mental stimulation activities into your pet’s daily routine. For example, hide treats around the house, give your pet puzzle feeders, or play games like fetch or tug of war. This can help keep your pet’s mind occupied and reduce feelings of stress and loneliness.

Increase Walking Frequency

Walks provide not only physical exercise but also mental stimulation for pets. If possible, try to take your pet on longer walks before and after work/school to help burn off energy and reduce restlessness. Additionally, walking provides an opportunity for pets to explore their surroundings and expend mental energy. (And, they’ll love spending the extra time with you!)

Make Arrivals and Departures Less Emotional

Since pets pick up on their owners’ emotions, try to make departures and arrivals as low-key as possible. Avoid lengthy goodbyes, and greet your pet calmly when you come home. This can help reduce anxiety and make transitions less stressful.

Book a Visit to See Us

Finally, if your pet is struggling with separation anxiety, please book a visit to see us. Our veterinary team can provide expert advice and recommend appropriate treatment options

Separation anxiety in pets can be a challenging issue to manage, but by recognizing the signs and taking proactive steps, pet owners can help their pet family members adjust to a quieter home. Remember, your pet relies on you for comfort and security, so be patient and offer plenty of love and support. If you’re concerned about your pet’s behavior, book a visit to see us, and we’ll be happy to help.

As pet owners, it’s crucial to prioritize the mental and physical health of our beloved companions. One of the most common causes of stress in pets is summer thunderstorms and fireworks. During these events, pets exhibit various behaviors that indicate fear and stress. When experiencing a thunderstorm or fireworks, pets may pant excessively, bark or howl, tremble, hide, or even become destructive. These behaviors can be alarming and cause stress to both the pet and the owner. So what can you do to help alleviate your furry friend’s stress during these situations?

Provide a Comfortable and Safe Space

It’s essential to create a comfortable and safe space for your pet during a thunderstorm or fireworks. Keep your pet indoors and away from windows. Consider creating a cozy space with their favorite toy, blanket, or bed in an interior room, preferably where they feel comfortable.

Play Calming Music

Just like humans, animals can be sensitive to noise. Providing calming music can help create a quiet, peaceful environment for your pet to help them relax, in addition to reducing the sounds of the booms outside.

Consider Products That Help Calm Pets

Various products are available in the market that can help calm pets during thunderstorms or fireworks. There are specific articles of clothing, such as calming wraps and shirts, which apply gentle pressure and offer a calming effect during stressful situations. Calming sprays, diffusers, and treats can help reduce anxiety and stress in pets. Make sure that the products you are using are pet-safe and specifically created for pets. Our veterinary team can provide guidance on items that may help in your pet’s specific situation.

Anticipate the “Booms”

Once you have a calm area set up for your pet, don’t forget to take time to prepare your pet in advance for the upcoming “booms”. Pay close attention to weather alerts and relocate your pet to their calming space BEFORE the noise begins. Similarly, be aware of local events which may be displaying fireworks over the next several weeks.

By making time spent in this calming space a positive one, rather than a stressful one, you can help your pet cope better in the future. Provide a special treat or toy when they’re there to make it an enjoyable experience.

Seek Help from a Veterinarian

In severe cases, pet parents may need to seek help from a veterinarian to reduce their pet’s stress levels. Vets can prescribe medications that help alleviate anxiety and provide advice on other methods that can help comfort and soothe pets during storms or fireworks.

Being proactive can go a long way in helping your pet feel safe and comfortable during the summer months. Keeping a close eye on their behaviors, providing a safe space, playing calming music, trying products that help calm pets, and seeking help if needed are all important steps to ensure your pet’s well-being.

Make sure to prioritize your pet’s mental health and well-being by taking the necessary steps to alleviate their stress during thunderstorms and fireworks. If you notice any signs of severe stress, don’t hesitate to seek help from our veterinary team.

Have you thrown yourself into your spring cleaning? If you’re like most people, you’re airing out the house, getting some plants in the ground, and enjoying the beauty of this season with your pet by your side. In fact, this is one of the best times of year to be a pet–the birds and squirrels are active and back to their favorite hobby of entertaining our dogs and cats, and the weather is perfect for letting some fresh air in for your cat or taking your dog on a long walk. If you’ve knocked out your spring cleaning and are ready to move on to some pet care musts, we’re here to help! We put together a list to help you plan your springtime pet care.

Use this list to identify tasks then check them off, so you have more free time to spend with your pet.

#1 Refill Your Pet’s Parasite Preventatives

Parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms reappear in full force this time of year. While they never completely go dormant, there is a surge of cases that come through our clinic once spring arrives.

While fleas and ticks may seem like only a nuisance, these pesky pests carry potentially fatal diseases. Heartworms can also be deadly and wreak havoc on a pet’s cardiovascular system. So, be sure to refill your pet’s parasiticides before they take full advantage of the spectacular weather with some outdoor adventures.

“Why does my pet need an appointment for a new parasite prevention prescription?”

When we prescribe your pet medications, we need to verify that they’re healthy enough to handle any side effects. Additionally, heartworm medication only kills the larvae. This means if your dog is infected with heartworms, a new prescription will only control any new larvae that hatch while the adult heartworms rob your pet of their health. Therefore, we need to verify that your pet is free and clear of these parasites before prescribing any medications.

#2 Get a Fresh Start to the Season with Grooming

Spring is a time for renewal and fresh starts… which makes it a great time to have your pet groomed. As your dog or cat sheds their winter coat, a bath, some brushing, and nail care help them to feel their best.

Grooming your pet in spring also creates the opportunity for a quick paw and nail check to ensure they’re walk-ready. Walking on overly long nails can put a strain on a pet’s joints and cause a great deal of discomfort–and with fewer walks in winter, you may find your pet’s nails aren’t getting worn down as well as they need.

#3 Spring Clean Your Pet’s Belongings

As parasites re-emerge along with pollen, mold, and dander, it’s important to wash and clean your pet’s belongings. Not only will this renew their scent as you freshen up the rest of your house, but it will minimize your pet’s exposure to these irritants.

Be sure to wash your pet’s:

• Bed and bedding
• Collar and leash
• Food and water bowls
• Car seat covers
• Toys
• Food mats
• Food storage containers
• Rugs and carpet

#4 Check for Signs of Allergies

Everything is in bloom… and so are those spring allergies. If you’ve noticed your pet experiencing signs of allergies, be sure to make an appointment to help them find some relief from their discomfort.

The most common signs of spring allergies in pets include:

• Itchy paws
• Itchy skin
• Itchy ears and/or head shaking
• Rashes or bumps
• Watery eyes
• A runny nose
• Ear discharge
• Sneezing
• Excessive itchy and rubbing
• Greasy skin and fur
• Scabs
• Hair loss
• Odor

#5 Survey Your Home & Yard for Spring Hazards

Finally, you want to safeguard your pet from any spring hazards that could do them harm. This includes possible toxins and tools that may present a physical danger. A little preparation, organization, and due diligence in this area could save your pet’s life.

Be sure to:

• Put away any gardening equipment after use
• Store herbicides and pesticides out of reach
• Place all household cleaners in a pet-safe location
• Close windows and doors before you leave
• Survey your home and yard for toxic plants
• Check your fence line for any weak spots and repair them

Start Spring on the Right Paw

Take advantage of the sunshine and warm weather while checking these items off your to-do list. We’re here for you if you need to refill your pet’s prescription and to help you better understand your pet’s needs. We hope that your spring is filled with bright memories with your pet. Happy spring from your veterinary team!

According to the Pet Poison Helpline, every year, thousands of pets are affected by accidental poisoning. To raise awareness about common poisons and how we can prevent our pets from being exposed to them, Pet Poison Prevention Month is observed in March.

Here are some common pet toxicities that every pet owner should be aware of:

Human Medications:

Over-the-counter and prescription medications can be extremely dangerous for pets if ingested in large amounts or over a prolonged period. Common examples include painkillers, antidepressants, and cold and flu medications.

Toxic Plants:

Certain plants such as lilies (for cats) and azaleas can cause serious harm if consumed by pets.

Household Cleaning Supplies:

Many cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful or fatal if ingested by pets. Even if pets don’t ingest a substance, they can still be harmed if a corrosive or caustic substance touches their skin.

Common Human Foods:

Grapes, onions, garlic and alcohol can all be toxic to pets if ingested. Chocolate, sugar-free gums, and mints may also be hazardous.

Rodenticides:

Rat, mouse and mole poisons can inadvertently be eaten by pets. To prevent this, use bait stations that are not accessible or toxic to your pet. Even better, opt for pet-safe options for rodent control.

Preventing Accidental Poisonings:

The best way to prevent accidental poisonings is to keep all potential toxins away from your pet’s reach and never leave them unattended. This may feel daunting. After all, with so many of the items we consume or have access to every day, how can we make sure our pets don’t get a hold of anything?

The key is to put safety protocols in place like keeping household cleaners and medications locked away, avoiding giving your pet human food or snacks and double-checking that any plants you bring into the house are safe for pet consumption. Take a look through your home, through your pet’s eyes, and take note of what you may see if you were at their level.

Preventing pet poisoning starts with being proactive about keeping toxins out of reach. Here are some tips on how you can protect your pets:

• Store all medications in a secure location where your pet cannot access them.
• Research which plants are toxic for your particular type of pet and avoid bringing them into your home.
• Keep snacks and treats only to items specifically made for animal consumption. Be mindful of the garbage and compost areas where toxic food items may be present.
• Keep all cleaning supplies locked up or stored in a high cabinet.
• If you must use rodenticides, make sure they are placed in areas that your pet cannot access.

If you suspect that your pet has been poisoned, time is critical. Contact us immediately to receive the best advice and prompt treatment. Let’s work together to raise awareness about pet poison prevention and help keep our pets safe.

Pet Poison Prevention Month serves as an important reminder for all pet owners to take steps toward keeping their animal companions safe from potential hazards within their homes or outdoors. By being vigilant and taking preventative measures, we can help ensure our beloved companions live long and healthy lives free from harm caused by accidental poisonings.