Ensuring your pet’s good health involves vigilance on several fronts. Brodheadsville Veterinary Clinic will work with you to assure your dog or cat has the best care available. This is even more important as the seasons change and new health issues present themselves. Spring is in the air, and, as winter fades, you should keep in mind some potential pet health hazards that come along with the warmer temperatures.

1. Keep bugs away. Is your pet on a regular flea/tick preventive? What about heartworm? Tick-borne diseases—like leptospirosis—are on the rise. Some of these diseases can be deadly and can also be transmitted to humans. Heartworm is transmitted through mosquito bites. The deadly disease is expensive and difficult to treat, but it can be prevented easily. Ask us what we recommend for your pet.
2. Don’t get lost. As the weather warms, more pets (and their humans!) will want to be enjoying the great outdoors. Accidents happen, and if your pet gets lost, you’ll greatly increase his chances of coming home if you have him microchipped and you ensure your contact information is up to date on the microchip registration. Stop in for a quick check of your pet’s microchip.
3. Control allergies. Just like humans, pets can suffer from allergies. Allergic reactions in cats and dogs can cause itching, sneezing, skin irritation, and even life-threatening reactions to insect bites and stings. There are options to prevent common allergic reactions in pets, so call our office if you suspect your dog or cat is suffering from allergies.
4. Keep contagious diseases in check. The weather is warmer, and as contact between animals increases, so does the likelihood of the spread of contagious diseases, such as parvo and upper respiratory viruses. Be sure your pet is up to date on all vaccines.
5. Don’t sacrifice health for beauty. You might be thinking of beautifying your property this spring, but, according to the Pet Poison Helpline, fertilizers and mulch can contain potentially toxic substances. Be sure to keep your dog or cat away from treated areas to prevent gastrointestinal or pancreatic problems.

These tips, plus your regular preventive care exam with our office, should help keep your furry pal in tip-top shape this spring. The Brodheadsville Veterinary Clinic team is here to help.