Spring Into Pet Health: March Newsletter from Timber Trails
As we welcome the first signs of spring here in Arkansas, it’s the perfect time to make sure our pets are ready for the new season. From seasonal allergies to outdoor adventures, there are many factors to consider as we shift from winter to spring. Let’s take a look at some important spring health tips and updates to keep your pets happy, healthy, and safe!
Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention: A Year-Round Commitment
While many pet owners associate flea, tick, and heartworm prevention with the warmer months, these pests are a year-round concern in Arkansas. However, as spring arrives, the risk of exposure significantly increases.
Fleas and Ticks: These parasites thrive in warm, humid conditions and can cause skin irritation, infections, and even serious diseases like Lyme disease and Ehrlichiosis. Keeping your pet on a year-round flea and tick prevention regimen is essential. We offer a variety of vet-approved preventative options, including oral and topical treatments tailored to your pet’s needs.
Heartworm Prevention: Heartworm disease, transmitted by mosquitos, can be deadly if left untreated. Unfortunately, Arkansas has a high prevalence of heartworm cases, making prevention a necessity. Heartworm disease is much easier to prevent than to treat, so be sure your pet is on a consistent preventative plan. If your pet needs a heartworm test or you need to refill their medication, schedule an appointment with us today!
Spring Health Tips for Pets
As temperatures rise and the flowers begin to bloom, our furry friends can be affected by the changes in the environment. Seasonal allergies are common in both pets and people, so if your dog or cat starts itching, sneezing, or experiencing watery eyes, they might be dealing with spring allergens. Be sure to schedule a check-up with us to discuss treatment options for allergy relief.
In addition, spring marks the beginning of flea and tick season, so it’s crucial to stay on top of prevention. Fleas and ticks thrive in warmer weather, and they can lead to a host of health problems for your pets, including skin infections and tick-borne diseases. We offer flea and tick prevention products to keep your pets protected throughout the season.
Pet Wellness Exams and Spring Vaccinations
Spring is the perfect time to schedule your pet’s annual wellness exam. Regular check-ups ensure that your pet stays in top health and that any underlying conditions are caught early. During the exam, we’ll check your pet’s overall health, including dental care, weight management, and skin conditions.
Vaccinations are equally important, and spring is the ideal time to ensure your pet is up-to-date. Our clinic offers a full range of vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and bordetella (for kennel cough). Don’t forget that heartworm prevention is also vital during this time, as warmer weather increases the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. We can tailor a vaccination and preventative care plan for your pet’s needs.
Pet Care Tips for Springtime Activities
Spring is the season for outdoor adventures! Whether you’re hiking in the Ozarks, playing at the dog park, or enjoying backyard fun, it’s important to keep your pet’s safety in mind. Make sure your dog is leashed and has proper identification, such as a collar and microchip, in case they get lost. Always bring fresh water for hydration during walks and outdoor play.
Remember to watch out for hazardous plants such as poison ivy, oak, and sumac. Additionally, avoid exposing your pet to hot pavement, which can burn their paws. And as the weather warms up, don’t forget about sunscreen for pets with light coats or exposed skin—especially those with white fur or pink noses.
Pet Poison Prevention: Plants and Foods to Watch Out For
It’s pet poison prevention month! Springtime brings new plants and flowers into bloom, but it’s important to be aware of which ones are toxic to pets. Popular plants like lilies, azaleas, and daffodils can cause serious health issues if ingested. Keep these out of reach of curious pets, and if you have any concerns, let us know. If you’re tackling spring pests with pesticides, make sure to use pet-safe alternatives.
Springtime also brings new foods to the table, so keep an eye on what your pet might be nibbling on. Grapes, raisins, chocolate, and onions are all common foods that are toxic to pets. Be extra cautious when grilling or enjoying outdoor meals to ensure that your pet doesn’t accidentally ingest something harmful.
Spring cleaning & pet safety: many common household cleaners contain chemicals that can be harmful to pets. Bleach, ammonia, and isopropyl alcohol are a few common household cleaners that are toxic to pets. Opt for pet-safe cleaning products and store them out of reach.
If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, contact us immediately or call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Seasonal Product Recommendations
As the winter months come to a close, ensure that your pets stay safe during the remaining cold fronts. Keep pets indoors or in pet safe heated areas to protect them from frigid temps. As the weather changes, your pet may need some seasonal gear. We recommend cooling mats or vests to help keep your pet comfortable during warmer days. In addition, it’s a great time to stock up on flea and tick prevention products, as well as heartworm medications. Our clinic offers these products, and we’re happy to guide you in selecting the best options for your pet.
Celebrate National Puppy Day- March 23rd!
National Puppy Day is March 23rd, and at Timber Trails, we are passionate about advocating for pet adoption! If you’re thinking of bringing a new furry friend into your home, consider visiting your local animal shelter. Once you’ve found the perfect pup, bring them in for a thorough check-up and vaccinations to ensure they start their new life happy and healthy!
Celebrate National Puppy Day- March 23rd!
National Puppy Day is March 23rd, and at Timber Trails, we are passionate about advocating for pet adoption! If you’re thinking of bringing a new furry friend into your home, consider visiting your local animal shelter. Once you’ve found the perfect pup, bring them in for a thorough check-up and vaccinations to ensure they start their new life happy and healthy!
