There’s no doubt that pets are a wonderful part of the family. As the weather continues to warm up and we head toward summer, it’s a great opportunity to spend more time with our four-legged friends, whether that means longer walks, games of fetch or just hanging out in the backyard. Now also is the time to take a few simple steps to ensure your pets stay happy and healthy.
visit the vet
The Humane Society of Missouri recommends taking your pet to the veterinarian for a routine checkup in the spring. Along with checking for any health conditions your pet may have developed during the winter months, the examination is a great time to update their vaccinations and learn about recommendations for preventative measures during flea and tick season.
get outside & get active
Thanks to more daylight and warmer weather, spring is ideal for heading outside and keeping your pet active. Regular exercise helps them maintain a healthy body weight while also promoting better mental health. Take advantage of the seasonal conditions and head to the park for a long walk or hang out in the backyard for some outdoor play.
check for mobility issues and other concerns
While you’re taking advantage of the favorable weather, keep an eye on how your pet behaves. If you notice that they appear to be lethargic or hesitant to take actions like running or climbing stairs, you may want to consult your veterinarian. For both senior and younger dogs, mobility issues can often be treated, eliminating discomfort and improving quality of life for your pet.
prevent parasites
During the warmer months, heartworms, ticks and fleas are at their most active, leaving your furry friends at greater risk for a variety of health issues. Prevention is much easier to deal with than treatment, so consult your veterinarian to determine the parasite prevention method that is most suited for your pet’s lifestyle, age, weight and other risk factors.
watch out for allergies
Spring is a season of watery eyes, congestion and sneezing—and not only for humans! It’s also peak allergy season for our pets. Recurrent scratching, licking and gnawing are common signs that your pet is suffering from allergies. Keep an eye out for these behaviors and other unusual ones. If you suspect your pet has an allergy, be sure to consult your veterinarian about treatment options.
prepare for severe weather
While spring is often associated with pleasant conditions, it also can bring severe weather events. In case of a tornado, make sure you have an emergency plan that includes your pet. During inclement weather, keep your pet indoors and away from windows. In case of evacuation, make sure you take your pet with you. If you have supplies for emergency situations, make sure to include food, water, medication and important documents for your pet among them.
protect pets from the heat
The weather is warming up, and while that’s great for outdoor activities, make sure you are keeping your pets safe. If the temperature is higher than 70ºF, don’t leave your pet in a parked car. According to the Humane Society, it only takes 10 minutes for the inside temperature to rise to 102ºF or hotter. When you head out for a run or jog, make sure to take frequent water breaks, and if you suspect you pet is overheating, place a cool or cold, wet towel around their neck or pour cool water over their body, especially the abdomen and between the hind legs.
Photos: Humane Society of Missouri