Every dog loves Springtime – we’re talking longer walks and scurrying around in Spring flowers. And while this much welcomed season has so many upsides, enjoying the great outdoors can pose health risks to our beloved dogs. That’s why we’ve put together some general health care tips on keeping your dog healthy and happy this Spring.

Flea and tick prevention

One of the very few downsides to Spring? It’s flea and tick season and time to get using those flea and tick prevention treatments. Double check the label of the product you choose to apply, some contain toxic ingredients. We can highly recommend VETiONX. Be sure to groom your pooch regularly and bathe him or her as often as you feel they need it – a lot of outdoor time often comes with its fair share of dirt. 

Deworming

We would always do this year round, but if you haven’t, now’s the time to treat your pooch. If he or she goes untreated throughout the outdoor season, they could become infected should they ingest something they shouldn’t. Speak to your vet if you’re unsure of how to treat your dog. 

Gardening and Flowers

Some flowers, including lilies, daffodils and tulips are highly toxic to both cats and dogs and can even be fatal. Be mindful of the flowers you bring into your home or garden this Spring and Summer. Also, if you’re thinking of treating your lawn, opt for a product that’s pet-safe. 

Cars

Yes, we have to mention it. We all know dogs shouldn’t be kept in cars during the warmer months as they can overheat very quickly and become extremely unwell if not worse. Please, please, please, avoid keeping your beloved pet in a hot car, it’s just not good for their health and can even land you a pretty hefty fine. 

Hydration

That leads us on to the topic of fresh water! Ensuring your pooch and cat for that matter has constant access to fresh water at all times is incredibly important. They can’t tell you when they’re thirsty, so ensuring its always available is essential to their health and wellbeing. 

Easter eggs and chocolates

Springtime brings its fair share of goodies, but keep them stored away well out of your pet’s reach. Why? Chocolate contains Theobromine, an ingredient that is incredibly toxic for dogs, causing possible vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, tremors and even fatalities in some cases. 

Thinking of switching your dog’s food?

If you’ve been thinking of switching your dog’s food, maybe to one of our natural premium dog foods, now’s the time to do it. Just like us humans, dogs tend to be even more active during Spring and Summer, meaning they’ll need as much energy as possible from the food they’re consuming.

Switching your dog’s food completely in one go can cause them to have an upset tummy, so it’s best to do it gradually by mixing the new food with their current food – increasing the amount gradually over time. The treats you give your dog are also important too – we stock a whole range of healthy, high-energy dog treats that are guaranteed to keep your dog’s energy fuelled.