Dog in spring, tips against ticks, allergies & Co.

1. Foods to avoid: Easter egg chocolate

TO Easter houses are filled with chocolate, a food that can be very dangerous for our four-legged friends. The chocolate, especially that fondantindeed, it contains theobromine, a substance which, by interacting with the nervous system, can lead to palpitations and respiratory problems, as well as nausea, vomiting, dysentery, apathy, trembling and staggering. Obviously, the situation is more serious if the dog is small and the chocolate is a lot: if the animal eats more than 2 grams of dark chocolate for every kilogram of body weight, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian immediately. Less dangerous are milk and white chocolate.

2. Pollen allergies: even dogs in spring can suffer from hay fever

Hay fever can lead to irritation and runny nose in dogs as well. In their case it can be triggered not only by inhalation, but also through the direct contact with skin. The good news is that, while annoying, it’s not a danger to the animal. Itching, licking, dermatitis and redness they can be signs that something is wrong. Better warn the vet that he will be able to recommend the antihistamine treatment more adequate. In milder cases, even one may suffice hypoallergenic shampooalways after veterinary advice.

To minimize pollen exposure is best walk early in the morning or late in the evening, close doors and windows. Vacuum often. Clean the kennel regularly and do not let it dry in the open air. Mow the lawn so that it is always short.

3. Plants and flowers dangerous for dogs in spring

Spring, do you want green at home? Yes, but with some precautions. Among the poisonous plants for four-legged friends are Dieffenbachia, Ficus or cyclamen. Better to choose Chlorophytum, also known as “spider plant”, which effectively purifies the air. Soleirolia Soleirolii, also called “Baby Tears Plant”. Pteridophyte ferns, such as the “Boston fern.” The banana tree. For those who prefer flowers, green light for gerberas, roses (as long as they are without thorns) and Phalaenopsis orchids.

4. Shedding: i.e., the spring moult

With the change of season, the four-legged friends begin to lose more hair: it is a natural and physiological mechanism, which on average lasts between 3 and 4 weeks. There spring wetsuit it can be a bit annoying phenomenon. To keep the invasion of hair under control, some behaviors can help. The first tip is to brush the hair daily: it will be a real pampering for the animal, but also a way to reduce the dirt that can accumulate between the lengths and improve the health of the coat and skin. This season especially, it’s worth choosing foods rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, such as those based on fish and salmon.

5. Tick alarm in dogs in spring: how to fight them

Walks in the great outdoors can expose furry friends to ticks, which can transmit bacteria and diseases, including Lyme. For fleas and ticks prevention is always the best solution, using broad spectrum pesticides.

Once back home it’s always a good rule check thoroughly under the fur, wearing gloves, if the dog has been attacked: in the presence of these parasites it is important to act within 24 hours. There removal it can be done at home with tweezers or tick-removing products that help remove the entire body of the parasite, including the head. Do not forget to clean the area after removal, so as to eliminate any residues and avoid infections. If in doubt, it is always a good rule to contact a vet.

There processionary, on the other hand, is a lepidopteran insect which, due to its stinging hairs, can cause even very serious symptoms in dogs. In case of contact, it is important to notify the vet immediately.

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