Spring precautions for your pet
The spring season means the arrival of warmer weather, longer days, and more time spent outdoors.
However, just like with other seasonal changes, there are a few extra precautions you should keep in mind for your pet to keep them safe and healthy throughout the spring months.
Bee stings
Just like people, pets can have allergic reactions to bites and stings. Although the risk of bee stings is present year-round, spring and summer bees are more active.
If your pet has been stung, you might see bumps, swelling of the skin, itchiness, and even in severe cases vomiting or drowsiness.
In cases where your pet is showing signs of distress from a sting, they really need to be checked out by the vet as soon as possible.
For severe swellings, or if your pet is very distressed, the vet can prescribe an antihistamine or a steroid which can help to alleviate the effects of the sting.
Spring Flowers
Cats and dogs enjoy spending time outside in the garden or park. During the spring months keep a watch out for poisonous plants while they enjoy these activities. During the spring months common toxic plants to look out for include lilies, daffodils and azaleas. Daffodils can be toxic, particularly the bulbs, however, the flower heads can also cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy. In severe cases this may result in dehydration, tremors, and convulsions. These signs can be seen from 15 minutes to one day following ingestion.
Although bluebells are uncommon in New Zealand, all parts of the plant are toxic to dogs. If ingested it can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort. A significant quantity of bluebell Ingestion of bluebells can also cause a risk of heartbeat irregularity (arrhythmia).
Other spring flowers to be keep a look out for include tulips and crocuses. They are less toxic, however seek advice from your vet if you are concerned your pet has eaten them.
Barbecues (onions, garlic, bones)
The warmer weather during the spring months often leads to the start of barbecue weather. If you are having a barbecue, keep your cat and dog at a safe distance. Ingredients from a barbeque can be dangerous to your pet if it is within their access.
Fresh, dried or powdered garlic and onions can cause a stomach upset and anaemia (low red blood cell count). The anaemia is caused by the destruction of red blood cells which in turn results in the reduced ability of the blood to carry oxygen to the organs that need it. In severe cases, the anaemia may lead to internal organ damage or even death. This toxicity is from the Allium species of plant which includes garlic, onions, leeks, scallions, chives and shallots.
If you suspect your pet has ingested these, watch for the following signs and contact your vet straight away:
rapid heart rate and breathing rate
weakness or lethargy
vomiting and diarrhoea
pale gums
red or dark coloured urine
jaundice (seen as yellowing of the gums , skin and white parts of the eyes)
Sweetcorn itself is not toxic – lots of dogs (and some cats!) love the odd little bit. However, the danger occurs with corn on the cob. When a corn cob is eaten by a dog, it is just the right size to cause a serious intestinal blockage. It is one of the most common foreign bodies we encounter. Please dispose of your corn cobs sensibly and ensure your dog is not given any.
Medication
During the spring to early summer months owners who suffer from seasonal allergies are likely to be stocking up and using antihistamine medication. Ensure you keep these medications our of reach from your dog – they can be toxic. Signs of ingestions includes:
Vomiting
Lethargy
Incoordination
Wobbliness
And tremors
Symptoms will typically develop within four to seven hours after ingestion. If large amounts of anti-histamine have been ingested convulsions, respiratory distress and coma may occur.