Foxtails & Spring Hazards

Just because winter is over and you no longer need to worry about your pet getting lost in the snow or burning their feet on rock salt, it doesn't mean that there aren't any hazards outdoors. When springtime arrives, there is a whole new set of hazards to worry about. You must know what to watch out for during the spring. It is also important to understand that as careful as you are, accidents can happen. If they do, our veterinarians at Tierrasanta Veterinary Hospital in San Diego are here to help. Here are some common springtime hazards.

#1 Thawing Ice

If your pet likes to wander, you need to be careful around ponds and streams. When the water warms up, ice begins to melt. If your pet walks across partially melted ice, it poses a drowning hazard. If you like to let your pet wander off-leash, it is best to keep your pet indoors and close to home until the ice has thawed.

#2 Ticks

When spring arrives, so do the ticks that are just waiting to jump on your pet. Ticks carry a variety of diseases, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, babesiosis, and anaplasmosis. These diseases can be deadly, which is why you need to protect your pet against ticks using a monthly flea and tick treatment.

#3 Heartworm

Mosquitoes are a hassle for humans, but they can be deadly for pets. Mosquitoes transmit the heartworm parasite, which affects the kidney, liver, eyes, and central nervous system. If heartworm is left untreated, it can be deadly. When spring arrives, making your pet’s heartworm medication is up to date is extremely important.

#4 Foxtails

Foxtails are barbed seed heads that can get caught on your pet's fur. Foxtails can become embedded in your pet’s skin, which can be very painful. They can also get caught between your pet’s toes or cause damage to the eyes. If your pet goes out into the woods, check their fur for foxtails every time they come back.

#5 Fertilizer

If you use fertilizer in your garden or on your lawn, you must keep your pet away from the area. Most fertilizers contain toxic substances such as nitrogen and iron. If your pet eats the fertilizer, they can be poisoned. Fertilizers can also cause gastrointestinal issues and problems with the pancreas.

Contact Our Animal Hospital Today

It is up to you to keep your pet safe this spring. However, as much attention and care you give, accidents can still happen. If your pet becomes sick or injured this spring, Tierrasanta Veterinary Hospital in San Diego is here to help. For more information about foxtails, other spring hazards, or to schedule an appointment, call us at (858) 215-6552. You may also request an appointment online.