Springtime Hazards for your Pets: How to keep them safe!

Spring is a beautiful season in Pittsburgh with longer days, warmer weather, and blooming flowers. However, it also brings some hazards for your furry friends. As a responsible pet owner, it's essential to know what these hazards are and how to prevent them.

Here are some of the most common springtime pet hazards:

1. Poisonous plants: Many plants that are blooming in spring are toxic to pets, such as lilies, daffodils, tulips, and azaleas. If ingested, they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death. Keep your pets away from these plants, and consider planting pet-friendly flowers, such as marigolds, sunflowers, or petunias.
   
   
2. Allergies: Just like humans, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies, which can cause itching, sneezing, and runny nose. If you notice your pet's allergy symptoms, talk to your vet about treatment options, such as antihistamines or allergy shots.
   
   
3. Fleas and ticks: As the weather warms up, fleas and ticks become more active and can infest your pets. Use flea and tick preventives recommended by your vet and purchased through a trusted source to guarantee you're getting genuine products (like our online pharmacy!), and check your pet's fur regularly for signs of infestation, such as itching or scratching.
   
   
4. Spring cleaning products: If you're doing spring cleaning, make sure to keep your pets away from cleaning products, such as bleach, ammonia, or disinfectants. These products can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, or poisoning if ingested.
   
   
5. Open windows and doors: With the warm weather, you may want to open your windows and doors to let in some fresh air. However, be mindful of your pets' safety, especially if they like to explore or escape. Make sure your windows and doors have screens or barriers, and supervise your pets when they're outside. This is a good time to make sure microchip information is up-to-date, too!

By being aware of these hazards and taking preventive measures, you can help your pets enjoy a safe and happy spring season. If you have any concerns about your pet's health or behavior, don't hesitate to contact us — we're here to help!