Spring Risks

The warm weather is slowly returning and with it the potential health risks for our pets. As we enjoy more outdoor activities, it is crucial to take steps to protect them. 1. Allergies
Just like humans, spring can be a difficult time for pets with allergies. Pollens, mold spores, and other allergens can trigger allergic reactions in our pets. Common symptoms include sneezing, itching, runny eyes, and skin irritation. If you notice your pet showing signs of allergies, consult your veterinarian for advice on how to relieve their symptoms. 2. Toxic Plants
Some spring plants can be toxic to pets if they ingest them. Common plants to watch out for include tulips, daffodils, lilies, lily of the valley and azaleas. Symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhoea, difficulty breathing and even seizures. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health or the plants you are using in your garden, contact your veterinarian who will be able to advise you. More information here . 3. Fertilisers and pesticides
They can be very toxic and even fatal for our animals. In order to be able to garden with peace of mind, let’s prefer to use natural products. Many stores and websites offer harmless yet effective products to preserve our plants, and protect our animals at the same time. 4. Chemical products
In the spring, many gardeners use chemicals like pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers to maintain their gardens. These products can be toxic to pets if ingested or inhaled. Be sure to store these products out of reach of your pets, and avoid using toxic chemicals in areas where your pets spend time. 5. Pests
Spring also marks the beginning of pest season. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes begin to proliferate, which can lead to serious health problems for our pets. Fleas and ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, while mosquitoes can transmit serious diseases like leishmaniasis and heartworm disease.

Be sure to protect your pet with antiparasitic products recommended by your veterinarian and check its coat regularly.
Here are several tips on how to manage and prevent ticks.
Find here the different diseases linked to this insect.
And advice and explanatory videos from the tiquetoccanada website. 6. The risks of running away
With the warmer weather of spring, many pets may be tempted to venture outside. However, this puts pets at risk of escape and accidents. As well as unwanted litters, especially cats that can breed very quickly. Make sure your pet has clear, up-to-date identification, such as a collar with an ID tag or a microchip. 7. Heat
Yes, even with only 20 degrees Celsius outside, the heat in a car can quickly become dangerous or even fatal for your pet. With such a temperature, it only takes 10 minutes for the passenger compartment to display 33 degrees Celsius. To avoid heatstroke, never leave your companion locked in your vehicle, even for a few minutes. When walking, give your pet access to fresh water at all times and also offer him a shaded place where he can rest away from the sun.
Here are some tips to follow in case of heat stroke.

8. The swimming pool
Every spring, many owners are horrified to discover the bodies of animals in their swimming pools. Since they are naturally attracted to water, it is common to see curious little ones roaming around these aquatic areas. The problem is that very often, swimming pools are not equipped with protective covers or access ramps. Here are several tips from Sauvetage Animal rescue :

• Provide your swimming pool with a well-stretched protective cover;
• Place one or two Styrofoam insulation panels on your pool. This will allow animals in distress to grab onto them and return to dry land;
• Buy or DIY a small exit ramp;
• Respect and enforce regulations in accordance with fences around swimming pools.

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