5 Springtime Safety Tips For Your Pet

Spring is here, and with the change of season, it’s time to take on those dreaded seasonal chores and much-needed home improvement projects. But, before you make any significant changes around the house, take some time to investigate potential hazards for your furry little friends.

Here are five safety tips that will help prevent springtime mishaps:

• Double check screens

While the warm weather makes you want to open all the windows in the house to let in the fresh air, unscreened windows can pose a risk to your pets. Cats especially are notorious to jump or fall through unscreened windows. So, before you welcome the breezy days of spring with open arms, double check that all your windows have functional screen in place.

• Use safe cleaning products

Spring-cleaning is a tradition in many homes. As the weather gets warmer, it’s feels nice to clean and remove those dust bunnies. However, please do so with caution. Carefully read the labels on all of your cleaning products. Most contain chemicals that are harmful to pets. Before you use any products, be sure your pets are not in the room. And when you’re done cleaning, open a window to let in the fresh air.

• Avoid poisonous garden products

Many folks use fertilizers, insecticides and herbicides to keep their plants and lawns healthy and green. However, these types of products can be fatal if consumed by our four-legged friends. Therefore, you should always follow the instructions on the label carefully when using poisonous products. And store them in a safe place, where your pets cannot ingest them.

• Pesky little critters

With spring comes an onslaught of bugs. Ticks are most prominent in spring and summer. For that reason, you want to be sure that your pet is on a year-round heartworm prevention medication, as well as a flea and tick control program. If not, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

• Home improvement projects

Spring is the perfect time to finish that outdoor deck you’ve been starring at all winter long. You may even want to stain that deck before pool season takes off. But, be warned that paints and solvents can be toxic to your pets, causing severe irritation or chemical burns. Also, be aware of physical hazards like nails, staples and power tools. These objects can seriously injure your pets. Before you do any serious home improvements this spring, consider confining your furry friend first.

Pets have spring fever too and that means they will want to spend a lot more time outdoors with you. But, before you enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, and cool breezes, you should be fully aware of the health hazards facing your pets.

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Jessica McNeal is a freelance writer and self-proclaimed animal lover. Jessica recently purchased pet ID tags for her dog, Emma. This way, if Emma were to wander off, she will be wearing a tag with Jessica’s contact information.