Antietam Valley Animal Hospital Newsletter
Spring has sprung and thankfully this means we are able to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather.
TOP 10 TIPS for SPRING
by the American Veterinary Medical Association
1. Fleas and Ticks
They are tiny and a nuisance but can also carry many diseases including Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Tapeworms, and many more. The preventative treatments that you may have discontinued in the Winter should start in early Spring. This will keep your pet's coat and your home free of pests!
2. Lawn Fertilizers
Lawn fertilizers are very toxic to pets. Store fertilizers in a place where your dog or cat -- and children-- cannot come in contact with it. After applying it to your lawn, follow manufacturer instructions on how long you should wait before allowing your pet into the area. If you see a sign posted on a lawn that tells you to keep your pets off, abide by it.
3. Pesticides and Herbicides
It's probably not surprising that these chemicals can be toxic to your pets. Even when they're not lethal, there are some long-term health concerns. Studies indicate the use of pesticides and herbicides may be tied to increased rates of specific forms of cancer in dogs. If your pet is exposed, wash him/her with soap and water immediately and call your veterinarian.
4. Cocoa Bean Mulch
It's becoming common to mulch a garden with the fragrant shells of cocoa beans. But just like chocolate, dogs like to eat them and they are toxic.
5. Lilies
Lilies are a flower common in the Spring, and they are very, very toxic to cats. Cats will often chew them, and even small amounts can lead to kidney failure and death.
6. Rhubarb Leaves
Rhubarb makes a fine pie and it's a staple in many vegetable gardens, but the leaves are poisonous and can cause kidney failure. For a complete list of plants and plantings that can be dangerous to pets visit our website at www.antietamvet.com and search under ‘Pet Library’
7. Rat and Mouse Poisons
Controlling vermin becomes an issue again in the Spring. Be aware that the same properties of common rat and mouse poisons that make them irresistible to pests will also attract your pet. If consumed, these can be fatal to your animal.
8. Cleaning products
Spring cleaning is an annual tradition in many households, but make sure the cleaning products don't hurt your animals. If the label states "keep pets and children away from area until dry" follow those instructions carefully, and store all chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
9. Paint and Paint Thinners
If you're putting a fresh coat of paint on the house, keep the pets away. Paint thinners, mineral spirits, and other solvents can cause severe irritation or chemical burns if swallowed or even if they come in contact with your pet's skin. Latex house paints typically produce a minor stomach upset, but some specialty paints may contain heavy metals or volatile substances that could be harmful if ingested.
10. Preventative Medications
Consult with your veterinarian about seasonal medications to keep your pet healthy. For example, Springtime is the season to restart heartworm and flea/tick preventatives if they were discontinued in the Winter. But keep in mind that manufacturer's instructions warn that Heartworm medications should not be given without first visiting your veterinarian to ensure that your pet has not developed the heartworm parasite. A simple blood test, with immediate results, will give you that peace of mind.
(Spring 2011)
Processing ....