By: Tanya L. Stroman
Hooray! Spring is here, almost here, ..ok Just around the corner! I myself have been waiting for spring. I am not really a winter type type gal. Spring is my 2nd favorite season behind Autumn. I love it because it always feels like everything new and positive is just around the corner. As much as I love Spring , I don’t believe Spring loves me as much because I have the most allergies. One thing I have learned as a pet parent and a professional pet sitter, our pet’s health tends to synchronize with ours. I have noticed everytime a doctor says something is affecting me, one of my fur babies tend to have the same affliction. So immediately I like to take care of anything to make sure all of my babies are healthy. I tend to get accused alot of caring more for my fur-babies than myself because I will always make sure they are healthy and not uncomfortable. That doesn’t mean that I care less for myself, I just take my committments seriously.
I want to help other pet parents to learn to be progressive and take preventative care of their fur-babies. It assures those babies will have a high quality of life. So here are some tips that will help ward off or at least minimize any health problems and a big vet bill.
Easter Is Just Around The Corner
Besides celebration of the day Christ arose, many people enjoy the flowers and candies which are tradition with Easter celebrations. Well, chocolate goodies are toxic to cats, dogs and ferrets, and flowers such as lilies can be fatal if ingested by our furry friends. Our kitties are curious creatures and they love to nibble on colorful plastic grass, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting and dehydration. Alsobunnies, chicks and other festive animals are adorable animals as well. But prepare for your expense because these babies grow up fast and often require specialized care.
Homes Needs Safety Proof Screens
Not unlike myself , many people feel the love of spring and like to become one with nature. One way we connect with nature is leaving our windows open to feel that wonderful breeze. I mentioned earlier about my allergies. I limit those fresh air moments. It is advised to do the same for your pets.Surprisingly , leaving windows open put your pets at risk—especially cats, who are apt to jump or fall through unscreened windows. Be sure to install snug and sturdy screens in all of your windows. If you have adjustable screens, make sure they are tightly wedged into window frames.
Attachments Are Not Always Unhealthy
My babies absolutely love to ride in cars and feel the wind on their faces. And so does every other pet. While we pet parents love to give our dogs that joy,allowing them to ride in the bed of pick-up trucks or stick their heads out of moving-car windows is dangerous. Flying debris and insects can cause inner ear or eye injuries and lung infections, and abrupt stops or turns can cause major injury, or worse! So secure your pets in a crate or even a customized seat belts. Lots of seat belts are unsafe as well for your dogs. I will be discussing this in another blog.
The Freshness of Spring
I am going to admit. I may sometimes get a little obsessed in cleaning my house but its not because I enjoy it. Cleaning, especially Spring cleaning is a must. and should be made into a yearly tradition in your household. I know I have a tendency of using strong cleaners such are ammonia and clorox. These are cleaners that are hazardous not only to you but your pets. Keep all cleaners and chemicals out of your pets’ way. The key to using them safely is to read and follow label directions for proper use and storage.
DIY Projects 101
As I mature , I notice that I become more self sufficient and love the Do-It-Yourself Projects. Many products that are used with projects are paints, mineral spirits and solvents and it can be toxic to your fur-baby and cause severe irritation or chemical burns. Again, carefully read all labels to see if the product is safe to use around your furry friends. And be cautious of physical hazards, including nails, staples, insulation, blades and power tools. It may be wise to confine your dog or cat to a designated pet-friendly room during home improvement projects.
One With Nature
Another great healthy way of living is gardening. It’s not just for the elderly to do. Many of us love to grow our own vegetables and fruits. Its our attempt at being green. Well pet parents, I urge to consider carefully what fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides you to keep your plants and lawns healthy and green. The ingredients aren’t meant for four-legged consumption and can be fatal if your pet ingests them. Always store these poisonous products in out-of-the-way places and follow label instructions carefully. If you want more gardening tips, click this link : Pet Safe Gardening.
Plants Can Be Poisonous Too
We garden because we are aware it can be more healthy for us.! But not every plant is health for us or our animals. I mentioned earlier that Easter lillies are toxic to pets. Other popular springtime plants that are toxic and fatal to pets are rhododendron and azaleas. Don’t allow your pets to eat them. If you want a more detailed list of plants and flowers that are toxic and non-toxic to pets, check out this list : Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants.
Allergies,Oh Nooo!
I am very sensitive to certain foods, plants, dust and pollen and so are my pets. Some allergic reactions in dogs and cats are minor sniffling and sneezing as well as life-threatening anaphylactic shock. Don’t hesitate and act quickly if you feel your pet has Spring time allergies. Take them to vet! More Allergy Tips , Click these links: Dog Allergies and Cat Allergies.
Pestering Insects!
One downside to Spring is onslaught of bugs. I learned my lesson years ago about the effects of Heartworm disease. And believe me, no pet parent want their fur babies suffering this illness. So,make sure your pet is on year-round heartworm preventive medication, as well as a flea and tick control program. I would also spray my house , especially living quarters to prevent ticks and fleas. Let your vet customize a preventative plan for you. ( Heartworm Lesson)
Its All About The Outdoors
It’s a fact that warm weather increases our endorphin and serotonin levels. It makes us happy. And when this happens it means more trips to the park, longer walks and your pet baby will want to explore more and wander off. One thing I am a stickler about is keeping my dogs on a leash. But many pet parents have babies that are trained off leash. Therefore, they are at high risk of their pet getting involved in many things they should stay away from. To lower that risk,,ake sure your dog or cat has a microchip for identification and wears a tag imprinted with your home address, cell phone and any other relevant contact information. Another Tip : Your canine baby should wear flat (never choke) collars, please.
I hope these tips help. If you suspect that your pets have made contact or ingested poisonous substances, Contact your Vet immediately!
Til Next Time….
Hooray! Spring is here, almost here, ..ok Just around the corner! I myself have been waiting for spring. I am not really a winter type type gal. Spring is my 2nd favorite season behind Autumn. I love it because it always feels like everything new and positive is just around the corner. As much as I love Spring , I don’t believe Spring loves me as much because I have the most allergies. One thing I have learned as a pet parent and a professional pet sitter, our pet’s health tends to synchronize with ours. I have noticed everytime a doctor says something is affecting me, one of my fur babies tend to have the same affliction. So immediately I like to take care of anything to make sure all of my babies are healthy. I tend to get accused alot of caring more for my fur-babies than myself because I will always make sure they are healthy and not uncomfortable. That doesn’t mean that I care less for myself, I just take my committments seriously.
I want to help other pet parents to learn to be progressive and take preventative care of their fur-babies. It assures those babies will have a high quality of life. So here are some tips that will help ward off or at least minimize any health problems and a big vet bill.
Easter Is Just Around The Corner
Besides celebration of the day Christ arose, many people enjoy the flowers and candies which are tradition with Easter celebrations. Well, chocolate goodies are toxic to cats, dogs and ferrets, and flowers such as lilies can be fatal if ingested by our furry friends. Our kitties are curious creatures and they love to nibble on colorful plastic grass, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting and dehydration. Alsobunnies, chicks and other festive animals are adorable animals as well. But prepare for your expense because these babies grow up fast and often require specialized care.
Homes Needs Safety Proof Screens
Not unlike myself , many people feel the love of spring and like to become one with nature. One way we connect with nature is leaving our windows open to feel that wonderful breeze. I mentioned earlier about my allergies. I limit those fresh air moments. It is advised to do the same for your pets.Surprisingly , leaving windows open put your pets at risk—especially cats, who are apt to jump or fall through unscreened windows. Be sure to install snug and sturdy screens in all of your windows. If you have adjustable screens, make sure they are tightly wedged into window frames.
Attachments Are Not Always Unhealthy
My babies absolutely love to ride in cars and feel the wind on their faces. And so does every other pet. While we pet parents love to give our dogs that joy,allowing them to ride in the bed of pick-up trucks or stick their heads out of moving-car windows is dangerous. Flying debris and insects can cause inner ear or eye injuries and lung infections, and abrupt stops or turns can cause major injury, or worse! So secure your pets in a crate or even a customized seat belts. Lots of seat belts are unsafe as well for your dogs. I will be discussing this in another blog.
The Freshness of Spring
I am going to admit. I may sometimes get a little obsessed in cleaning my house but its not because I enjoy it. Cleaning, especially Spring cleaning is a must. and should be made into a yearly tradition in your household. I know I have a tendency of using strong cleaners such are ammonia and clorox. These are cleaners that are hazardous not only to you but your pets. Keep all cleaners and chemicals out of your pets’ way. The key to using them safely is to read and follow label directions for proper use and storage.
DIY Projects 101
As I mature , I notice that I become more self sufficient and love the Do-It-Yourself Projects. Many products that are used with projects are paints, mineral spirits and solvents and it can be toxic to your fur-baby and cause severe irritation or chemical burns. Again, carefully read all labels to see if the product is safe to use around your furry friends. And be cautious of physical hazards, including nails, staples, insulation, blades and power tools. It may be wise to confine your dog or cat to a designated pet-friendly room during home improvement projects.
One With Nature
Another great healthy way of living is gardening. It’s not just for the elderly to do. Many of us love to grow our own vegetables and fruits. Its our attempt at being green. Well pet parents, I urge to consider carefully what fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides you to keep your plants and lawns healthy and green. The ingredients aren’t meant for four-legged consumption and can be fatal if your pet ingests them. Always store these poisonous products in out-of-the-way places and follow label instructions carefully. If you want more gardening tips, click this link : Pet Safe Gardening.
Plants Can Be Poisonous Too
We garden because we are aware it can be more healthy for us.! But not every plant is health for us or our animals. I mentioned earlier that Easter lillies are toxic to pets. Other popular springtime plants that are toxic and fatal to pets are rhododendron and azaleas. Don’t allow your pets to eat them. If you want a more detailed list of plants and flowers that are toxic and non-toxic to pets, check out this list : Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants.
Allergies,Oh Nooo!
I am very sensitive to certain foods, plants, dust and pollen and so are my pets. Some allergic reactions in dogs and cats are minor sniffling and sneezing as well as life-threatening anaphylactic shock. Don’t hesitate and act quickly if you feel your pet has Spring time allergies. Take them to vet! More Allergy Tips , Click these links: Dog Allergies and Cat Allergies.
Pestering Insects!
One downside to Spring is onslaught of bugs. I learned my lesson years ago about the effects of Heartworm disease. And believe me, no pet parent want their fur babies suffering this illness. So,make sure your pet is on year-round heartworm preventive medication, as well as a flea and tick control program. I would also spray my house , especially living quarters to prevent ticks and fleas. Let your vet customize a preventative plan for you. ( Heartworm Lesson)
Its All About The Outdoors
It’s a fact that warm weather increases our endorphin and serotonin levels. It makes us happy. And when this happens it means more trips to the park, longer walks and your pet baby will want to explore more and wander off. One thing I am a stickler about is keeping my dogs on a leash. But many pet parents have babies that are trained off leash. Therefore, they are at high risk of their pet getting involved in many things they should stay away from. To lower that risk,,ake sure your dog or cat has a microchip for identification and wears a tag imprinted with your home address, cell phone and any other relevant contact information. Another Tip : Your canine baby should wear flat (never choke) collars, please.
I hope these tips help. If you suspect that your pets have made contact or ingested poisonous substances, Contact your Vet immediately!
Til Next Time….
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