With Spring on its way (and, given how lovely the end of February has been, I’m sure some animals think it’s already here!) it’s important to help our pets acclimatise and prepare themselves for warmer weather, more time outdoors and all the potential hazards ahead!
Your cat may start to become more active and spend more time outdoors now the weather is improving, as will your dog, either in the garden or out walking with you, so make sure your worm & flea treatments are up to date and that they’re microchipped (with your up-to-date details). Don’t forget to regularly check for ticks, which carry different diseases; removing them properly is essential as leaving part of them behind could result in infection in your pet.
If your guinea pig or rabbit has predominantly been living on hay, rather than grass, over the autumn and winter months, don’t let him suddenly gorge on spring grass as it may upset his stomach. It would be advisable to let them have limited grass as well as hay and then increase the grass (or access to grass) slowly.
Most animals start to shed their coats as the weather warms up and some dogs, cats and rabbits need a helping hand! Be sure to use the correct brush for them and don’t yank the extra hair out! Some animals groom each other but would appreciate a helping hand in their ‘difficult to reach’ areas! If your pet isn’t used to being brushed or handled, you may need to desensitise them by using short burst of reward-based sessions, being sure to keep them fun, positive and productive!
Whilst you’re busy planning for the better weather and perhaps a spring clean, be sure to keep garden fertilisers and pesticides away from your pets, and areas they may go, as well as any slug pellets you may use. In your home, be careful where you leave or spray household cleaning products and fresheners as most will be toxic to your pets. As pretty as spring flowers such as Lilies, Ivy and Daffodils are, it’s not advisable to allow your pet the opportunity to ingest or rub against them. Should you suspect your pet has been in contact with any toxins, please phone your vet immediately and take the product or product container with you to the practice.
If you would like more information on any of the services that Leading the Way Pet Care provides, please contact us via please contact us via email or phone us on 0800 027 9846.