Springtime is among us and with that comes so many lovely things: flowers, sunshine, plenty of outside time - but it also comes with a list of potential dangers that you should be aware of to protect your pets in the best possible way.
Of course, if your pets do happen to come into contact with any of these dangers, Companion Veterinary and Urgent Care Center is there as your go to emergency vet in the Bradenton and Sarasota area.
In an effort to avoid needing your emergency vet to intervene, let's go over the top seven potential springtime dangers for your pets.
1. Ticks and Tick-borne Disease
Ticks can be more than just annoying, they can also spread many diseases, including Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis. Preventative treatment is the best way to protect your pet from the risk of needing to go in to see the emergency vet.
2. Mulch and Fertilizers
The Pet Poison Helpline states that most fertilizers can contain toxic substances such as iron and nitrogen, which if consumed can pose a huge risk to your pet that could inevitably require emergency vet services. You might also find pesticides or fungicides in them and should also be aware that fertilizer can cause gastrointestinal and pancreatic problems in your pet.
3. Antifreeze
Antifreeze can be very dangerous for pets. Most types have a sweet taste and smell, which means that dogs will often dive in and eat it all. Antifreeze poisoning is the most common form of poisoning in pets and would absolutely mean needing to see your emergency vet. There are "pet-safe" antifreeze options that are less attractive for pets, so consider those above the others.
4. Bee Stings
Some dogs may have allergic reactions to bee stings, just like people. Talk to your urgent care or emergency veterinarian to learn how to keep your dog safe from bee stings and what to do if they do happen to be stung.
5. Metaldehyde (Slug Bait)
Snail bait poses a serious risk to dogs and cats, and is far more poisonous than you might think. Pets love the sweet taste of slug and snail bait, but would put them right in the emergency vet offices if consumed. It is important to be aware of the symptoms for metaldehyde poisoning so that your pet doesn't get it, so ask in advance so you know what to look for.
6. Heartworm
Primarily, mosquitoes transmit heartworm disease, but this can pose as a threat all year around if your pet doesn't have any heartworm preventative treatment. This is a serious illness that affects the heart, lungs, liver, kidney, central nervous system, and eyes and would land your pet with the emergency vet with how severe symptoms can be. If left untreated, it can lead to death.
7. Snakes
There are 20 venomous snake species in North America. They can be found in all 50 states, except Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, and Puerto Rico. Even if they are not meeting face-to-face, a rattlesnake could bite your dog. Rattlesnakes have a range of up to half their body length, but of course these aren't the only type of venomous snake your pet may come into contact with. Do your research and find out more about venomous snakes in your area.
As always, reach out to our awesome veterinarians at Companion Veterinary and Urgent Care Center with any questions you might have regarding your pet's health, or bring them in right away for emergency vet services at the first sign of danger.