Spring is officially in the air, and the California sun is heating up. With extended daylight hours and beach-friendly days, the natural course is to enjoy the outdoors and springtime activities with your pup.

Just as in the summertime, there are some springtime tips to keep you and your furry friend safe as the weather warms up.

Below are 6 tips for keeping your pup safe during springtime.

1. Allergies

Dogs are prone to pesky allergies, just as humans are. Dogs can be allergic to many irritants such as pollens, dust, and plants. Reactions resemble those in humans, such as itching and sneezing. The only way to nip these allergies in the bud is to hurry down to your vet’s office. 

2. Easter

Easter is a hop, skip, and a jump away. It is worth mentioning to keep a watchful eye out for your furry friend. Easter egg hunts, hidden chocolate candies, and plastic grass can all be hazardous for your dog. Keep a watchful eye on your dog or even consider keeping him in a separate, pet-friendly location while celebrating the holiday. 

3. Hot Weather

Here on the Central Coast, we get some beautiful, sunshiny days and we love them! But hot weather can be dangerous for your pup. It is important to keep your dog hydrated, with a readily available bowl of water. Hot asphalt, blacktops, and sand can easily burn their paws when the weather warms up. Make sure you keep your dog safe when the outside temperature rises. The cardinal rule is to never leave your pup in the car alone. Cars heat up ‌much faster than most people realize and it is dangerous. 

4. Lawn Care 

Spring is the time when flowers bloom and people are looking to achieve that luscious lawn. But it is imperative that you be cautious of any pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers, or any other products you may use this time of year. Please check all labels and keep such products safely and securely away from all pets. Always keep any pets away from treated areas and during the application process. 

If you have a green thumb and are looking to get your garden going, you may be wondering if there are any plants that can be poisonous to your pup. Well, there are a lot! Please check out this comprehensive list of poisonous plants from the ASPCA. This list is complete with pictures and filtered results. This list includes both toxic and non-toxic plants and has a list not only for dogs but for cats and horses as well.

5. Other Hazardous Material 

Garden care isn’t the only threat to your pup! With spring comes the tradition of “spring cleaning” and even home improvement projects. Always read the labels of cleaning products, paints, solvents, etc. It is important to be aware of the hazards these products have on both you and your pets. Be aware that even eco-friendly or natural products may contain harmful ingredients. To be on the safe side, never use these products while your furry friend is around, and always store them in a safe location.

6. Tags

Warm weather usually increases the chances of your pup wandering off, or trying to escape. Keep your pup properly tagged with updated contact information. Consider getting him microchipped if you haven't done so already. 

Springtime should be a time of gardening, long afternoon walks, Easter egg hunts, and fun in the sun. The hope is that you will enjoy every bit of the warm weather and these tips will help keep both you, and your dog safe and by your side. For more tips for you and your dog, please follow the New Life K9s blog.
 

Help save lives and donate to our cause!

New Life K9s places service dogs with veterans and first responders with PTSD at no cost to the veterans and first responders.