Just like you visit your doctor every year for a physical, your pet needs a checkup at least once a year. Unfortunately, it’s a task that all too many people either forget about or keep putting off month after month. That being said, with spring just around the corner, now is a great time to get it taken care of.
After a long winter with less time outside and, in turn, less exercise, not to mention table scraps and extra snacks, getting a checkup before the summer heat is just plain smart. During an annual exam, your pet will get a complete physical, meaning any new problems will be detected early and existing issues can be followed up on.
Before you remove their winter pet costume and cut them loose to enjoy the great outdoors again, take the same steps you do to improve your health and take them to see your vet. However, while there are a lot of things your vet will look at during the exam, there are some things you need to do to prepare your pet for warmer weather as well.
Keep reading to learn more.
Things to Do
Preventing Fleas and Ticks
When the weather warms up, fleas and ticks can become a major worry for pet parents. If your furry friend isn’t already getting flea and tick prevention all year, make sure to begin the treatment several weeks before spring begins. It’s always wise to consult with your vet first to choose the best plan of action for your pet.
Start Heartworm Prevention
Just as avoiding fleas and ticks and using amoxicillin for pets to prevent more serious illnesses is critical, preventing heartworms is essential to keeping your pet healthy. Heartworms can lead to dangerous health problems. It’s best to use heartworm prevention throughout the entire year because dealing with an actual heartworm infection can hit your wallet hard. Make sure to schedule a time with your vet to begin a medication plan or preventive measures for your animal friend.
Vaccinations
When you’re at the vet getting ready to protect your pet from creepy crawlies, don’t forget to update their shots and vaccination records. As it gets warmer and your pet starts hanging out more with their furry pals and you take them out for fun times at the park, the chances of catching nasty bugs like distemper or parvo go up. Be smart and ask your vet to give you a record of your pet’s shots and a schedule for any future ones they’ll need. If your cat or dog has anxiety about shots or vet visits, consider trying some calming hemp soft treats to make the experience a bit better.
Watch for Allergies
Many pets start to scratch excessively, show bald patches, or constantly rub their faces during the allergy season. They might even develop sores or get bumpy skin, signs that could point to allergies. Pets, much like people, may react to outdoor elements like grass or pollen. By keeping an eye on daily pollen levels and cleaning your pet’s paws with a damp cloth after they’ve been outside, you can help minimize their allergic reactions. Spring’s arrival also brings certain plants that could be harmful to your pet. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with local plant life that could pose a danger to your adventurous companion.
Maintaining a pet’s wellness requires year-round attention, but spring provides a unique opportunity to refresh and reinforce your pet’s health regimen. As the season changes, take proactive steps to ensure your beloved companion enjoys the warmer months with vitality and joy.
