How To Care For Your Dog In Spring

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies in the spring. Pollen from trees, grass, and flowers can cause discomfort, leading to itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. Some dogs may even develop skin irritations or ear infections due to allergic reactions.

Common Symptoms of Dog Allergies:

• Excessive scratching or licking

• Red, irritated skin

• Runny nose or watery eyes

• Ear infections or head shaking

How to Help:

• Wipe your dog's paws and fur after outdoor play to remove pollen.

• Bathe your dog with a hypoallergenic shampoo to soothe irritated skin.

• Consult your vet about antihistamines or allergy treatments if symptoms persist.

• Keep your dog indoors on high pollen count days.
• Use an air purifier to reduce allergens in your home.

Spring means gardening season , but many flowers and plants can be toxic to dogs. Popular spring blooms like daffodils, tulips, and lilies can cause serious health issues if ingested.

Common Toxic Plants:

• Tulips & Daffodils – Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling.

• Azaleas & Rhododendrons – Highly toxic and can lead to organ failure.

• Lilies – Extremely dangerous, especially for cats, but also harmful to dogs.

Garden Chemicals like pesticides and fertilizers can also be harmful. Keep your dog away from treated lawns and always rinse their paws if they walk on chemically treated areas.

Safe Alternatives:

• Use pet-friendly fertilisers and pesticides.

• Create a designated dog-friendly space in your garden.

• Train your dog to avoid nibbling on plants.

Easter is a fun holiday, but it also poses a hidden danger for dogs – chocolate . Even small amounts can be toxic, leading to serious health issues.

Signs of Chocolate Poisoning:

• Increased heart rate or restlessness

• Tremors or seizures in severe cases

• Vomiting or diarrhoea

What to Do If Your Dog Eats Chocolate:

• Call your vet immediately for advice.

• Try to determine how much chocolate they ate.

• In some cases, your vet may suggest inducing vomiting or providing activated charcoal.

Warmer weather brings an increase in fleas and ticks , which can cause serious health problems like Lyme disease and skin infections.

How to Check for Fleas and Ticks:

• Inspect your dog’s fur after walks in grassy areas .

• Look for small, dark specks (flea dirt) or tiny bugs.

• Check behind the ears, neck, and underbelly for ticks.

Preventative Measures:

• Use flea and tick prevention treatments recommended by your vet.

• Wash bedding and vacuum regularly to eliminate flea eggs.

• Keep your lawn and outdoor spaces tidy to reduce flea habitats.

As the temperature rises, dogs begin to shed their winter coat . Regular grooming helps to remove excess fur and keep their skin healthy.

Grooming Tips:

• Brush your dog daily to prevent matting and remove loose fur.

• Use a deshedding brush if your dog has a thick coat.

• Give your pup a bath with moisturizing shampoo to keep their skin fresh.

• Trim excess fur around paws to prevent dirt buildup.

• Check for signs of dry skin or irritation and use dog-friendly moisturizers.

Spring rains often lead to puddles and stagnant water , which can harbor bacteria and parasites, such as Leptospirosis .

 Risks of Standing Water: 

• Leptospirosis – A bacterial infection that affects the kidneys and liver.

• Parasites – Mosquitoes and other bugs lay eggs in still water.

• Chemicals – Some puddles contain runoff from fertilizers or pesticides.

Blue-Green Algae – Some bodies of water develop harmful algae that can be fatal to dogs.


How to Protect Your Dog:

• Avoid letting your dog drink from puddles or standing water.

• Carry fresh water and a bowl on walks.

• Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.

• If your dog loves water, stick to clean, running streams or lakes that are known to be safe.