Despite all of the recent rain here in southeast Michigan, it appears that we have finally left winter behind. It was long, and it was cold, but we made it folks. Welcome to spring. You’re putting away the gloves, scarves, winter coats, and hats, opening the windows, returning the deck furniture, and making all of these preparations to get ready for these wonderful longer days in the sun. You’re ready, but is your pet ready for spring? Here’s a quick checklist to make sure they are!
Go Grooming!
If your dog is like my dog, they’ve already begun shedding copious amounts of fur, creating furry flurries and mini cyclones in the car and the living quarters. Warmer weather means lots of shedding. Our furry friends get rid of their winter coats for the sleek, thinner attire. For pet parents, this means lots and lots of hair around the house. A regular bath and brush will help keep your home clean, your pet's smiling, and everybody happy. Your local Wags to Wiskers Pet Supplies stores in Ann Arbor (2270 W. Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48103) or Chelsea (1192 S. Main St, Chelsea) both carry a big selection of natural shampoos and conditioners that will keep your pet’s fur glossy and healthy. One of our trained sales associates would be happy to help you find the right product for your pet.
Be On the Lookout!
Ticks and fleas are doing the same thing as your pets: enjoying the sun and taking advantage of longer days, nicer weather, and more things to do. Unfortunately, these are not the types of things you want your dog or cat doing… As a responsible pet parent, you should ensure that your four-legged friends are on preventative medications all year-round, but it’s not a bad idea to use specific tick and flea control, such as rinses or tablets. Until the end of the month your local Wags to Wiskers Pet Supplies stores have 25% off Pet Lock products!
Apart from fleas and ticks, the other problem you have to take care of is worms. Tapeworms, roundworms and hookworms can become a problem in warmer months. One of the largest dangers to a pet’s health is dirofilaria immitis, or heartworms, which spread through mosquito bites. Be proactive and make sure your cat or dog has been dewormed for the season.
It’s Allergy Season
With grass, flowers, and trees abloom in spring, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies, just like we humans do. Keep an eye out for excessive scratching, licking, or hair loss, as these can be classic signs of allergies. If your pet develops any of the symptoms rapidly, it probably means that it’s not due to any of the regular foods they’re eating (unless you just switched it up) and you ought to schedule a vet visit as soon as possible. Feel free to check out our past Pupdate on 5 ways to relieve dog allergies!
Update your shots
In warmer seasons, your animals hang out a lot with other pets that may or may not have been properly vaccinated. Before you start spending more time at dog parks or join other fun pet activities in the neighborhood, make sure your pets have gotten their shots and are protected from infectious diseases.
Pet vaccination is important, but not every pet needs to be vaccinated against every disease. Schedule a vet checkup to ensure that your pet’s necessary vaccines are all updated. This will give them free reign at the local Ann Arbor and Chelsea dog parks!
Conclusion
Easy peazy, lemon squeezy. A few quick tips and some advice to give you peace of mind for your fur family as Michigan finally starts shifting into these great summer months.