Spring is a wonderful time of year; we can get outside for sunnier dog walks and our cats and bunnies enjoy the warmer weather. However, it is important to remember the dangers that the season brings, so we can keep our pets healthy and happy.
Easter Chocolate
Chocolate poisoning can cause significant illness, although with early treatment it is rarely fatal. Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolise and acts as a heart stimulant, similar to caffeine. The severity of poisoning will depend on your dog’s weight and the type and amount of chocolate consumed, as theobromine levels are much higher in dark chocolate than in milk or white chocolate. Ingestion of chocolate can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, increased thirst, restlessness and excessive panting. In severe cases the symptoms can progress to tremors, seizures and eventually heart failure. Symptoms can appear within 4-24 hours of ingestion and you should seek veterinary advice as soon as you suspect your dog may have ingested something they should not have, as early treatment is key.
Bulbed flowers
Daffodils, crocuses and tulips can all be poisonous if ingested, so be aware if your dog likes to dig and nibble in the garden or may chew at a vase full of daffodils. Lilies are particularly toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure within 36-72 hours of ingestion. If you think your cat could have eaten any part of a lily (including licking pollen from their fur or drinking water from a vase holding lilies) contact the surgery immediately on 01435 864422.
Adders
Adders begin to emerge in spring, and whilst bites are rare, they can occur if a curious dog disturbs one. If your dog has been bitten, contact your vet immediately. Keep your dog calm and carry them if possible to keep their heart rate low, never tourniquet the wound. Adders are a protected species, if you do find one, keep your distance and leave them be.
Slug and snail bait
The sale of slug bait containing the toxic chemical ‘metaladehyde’ has been banned in the UK, however, some old boxes may still be lurking in sheds and garages and if found should be disposed of safely. Always use a ‘pet safe’ or natural slug deterrent. If your pet does manage to eat some, contact your vet immediately as it is very dangerous even in just a small amount.
Increased lungworm risk
Lungworm is a potentially fatal parasitic disease which affects dogs of all ages. Pets can become infected by ingesting infected slugs, snails or frogs in puddles or attached to toys, or even by licking the slime trail. Make sure that you use a flea or worming product that protects against lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum) as the ingredient is not licensed for use in over the counter medications at time of writing. Lungworm protection can come in spot on treatment form or tablets.
Tick season
In Sussex we do tend to see ticks throughout the year, but particularly as the weather warms up. Ticks are nasty parasites which hook onto your pet to drink their blood, they can also pass on some nasty diseases such and lyme disease and babesiosis. Protect your pets with a monthly tick treatment, available from your vet. If you do find a tick on your pet, remove it with a specialist ‘tick-twister’, a very handy tool to have in your bag in case your dog (or you!) gets a tick!
Call us on 01435 864422 if you think your pet may have encountered a spring danger.
