Outdoor Care
Your dog or cat may prefer to spend more time lounging in the garden during the warmer months! Now is a good time to make sure your garden is still ‘pet safe’. Especially after winter weather we have experienced here in the UK. Check fence panels, gates, and walls to make sure there are no gaps. You’d be amazed how small a gap a determined dog can squeeze through!
Garden Plants
Some species of plants and flowers are poisonous to cats and dogs. Some common examples of these, at this time of year, include daffodils, spring bulbs, tulips and aconite. You might have these species of flowers in your garden, so placing a mesh fence around them will help to keep your dog or cat away. If your dog or cat tries to eat these plants, ensure they are not left alone in the garden.
If your pet might have chewed or ingested a plant which is known to be poisonous. Contact your veterinary practice for advice. Symptoms you may see are excessive salivating, sickness, diarrhoea and lack of coordination.
Springtime Allergies
We see a much higher number of skin related enquiries during the spring and summer months. Just like humans, dogs can develop allergies to pollen, grass and plants. Commonly, owners report that dogs begin to itch or start to develop red rashes, sometimes resulting in bald patches.
If you suspect your pet is developing a skin problem, we recommend you take them to the vet for a health check. Feeding a gluten free diet will not stop summertime allergies, but it will help to support the health of your pet’s skin and coat. Feeding a diet which contains optimising levels of biotin, zinc and omega-3 will also help to maintain a healthy skin and coat.
Regular Flea and Worming
Your pet needs regular flea and worming treatment throughout the year to keep parasites at bay, but during warmer months you may see more problems. As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, pets tend to spend more time outside and this increases their exposure to roundworm larvae and their chances of ingesting infected prey animals. Treating your pet with a flea treatment is an essential first step, but it is equally important to treat their bedding and resting areas (including carpet) in order to eliminate any further fleas and eggs that may be lying dormant.
Author: STUART EDGAR
OSCAR Pet Foods Carlisle offer a wide range of foods for dogs, cats in order to cater for your pet's needs throughout their lives. Diets include grain free, gluten free, weight control and joint care support. Contact Stuart Edgar on 01228 658143 or Mobile: 07486 457 237, or visit www.oscar.co.uk for more information.
