As Brits start to welcome the arrival of spring and warmer weather, pet owners are being reminded that the season can bring hidden dangers which could cause harm to our furry friends.
From cleaning products to parasites Ross Hallifax, from pet insurance specialist Purely Pets, has highlighted some of the most common spring hazards and how to avoid them to keep pets safe throughout the season.
Pollens
As activities start to move outdoors, pet owners will need to remain vigilant when it comes to their surroundings. While adults battle seasonal allergies, pets can suffer too, often without owners realising.
“Dogs can develop seasonal allergies to pollens, which often manifest as part of a clinical problem called atopic dermatitis and often lead to damage to the skin through itching and scratching,” adds Ross.
Parasites
Spring brings a rise in parasites such as fleas, ticks and worms which thrive as temperatures increase and can pose a risk to pets if preventative care is not maintained.
Wet spring months usually mean you’ll see a fair few slugs and snails around and they all have the potential to carry the dangerous lungworm parasite, which can be fatal. Dogs can easily eat or lick slugs, snails, or their slime trails, increasing the risk of becoming infected by lungworm.
“If you suspect your dog has been affected, contact a vet as soon as possible. Clean the dog’s environment, keep up with regular preventatives, and monitor them closely to make sure symptoms improve,” says Ross.
Insect stings
Pets may also react to bee and wasps’ stings, with responses ranging from mild discomfort to severe allergic reactions. In serious cases, swelling around the head and neck can restrict airways and be a life-threatening concern.
“If you see bees or wasps inside the home, safely remove them from any areas your pets may have access to,” says Ross.
Flowers
Spring blooms may brighten homes and gardens, but some can pose serious harm to pets. Popular springtime flowers such as daffodils, tulips, hyacinths and crocus are toxic to dogs, particularly the bulbs.
“If you have these flowers in your home, keep them out of your pet’s reach. Outside, be vigilant on walks and ensure your dog isn’t eating anything they shouldn’t be,” adds Ross.
Cleaning products
And for those preparing for a Spring clean, be mindful that cleaning products can be dangerous for pets. That’s because they contain chemicals that are toxic or even fatal if swallowed, such as bleach, disinfectants, drain cleaners and concentrated detergents.
“Keep all products securely out of reach, use pet‑safe alternatives where possible, and contact a vet immediately if your dog licks, inhales or walks through any cleaning solution,” says Ross.
“If you suspect your pet has ingested something they shouldn’t have, it’s advisable to call your vet immediately, rather than waiting to see if symptoms appear.”
Adder bites
Spring sees adder snakes emerge from hibernation and vets typically see a rise in bite incidents in spring and summer. Adders are naturally shy and usually only bite when they feel threatened. Unfortunately, curious dogs can unintentionally startle them, increasing the risk of a bite.
“Any dog suspected of being bitten by an adder should be seen by a vet as soon as possible. With prompt treatment, most dogs make a full recovery. However, bites can cause significant pain and swelling and if venom enters the bloodstream directly, it can be rapidly life-threatening. Bites to the face or neck can be particularly dangerous due to swelling that can obstruct breathing. The sooner your dog receives veterinary attention, the better their chances of a positive outcome,” warns Ross.
For more information on seasonal risks to pets, please visit: The hidden dangers of spring
