Spring pet advice from the Dick Vet

To help keep your pets happy and healthy in the coming months, vets from our General Practice and Hospital for Small Animals have outlined some potential dangers for pet owners to be aware of. If you have any concerns about the health of your pet, please contact your vet.

Flowers

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Spring flowers such as lilies, daffodils, bluebells, hyacinths, and tulips may be pretty to look at but are poisonous to dogs and cats. Even drinking the water that they sit in can be dangerous.

If you think your pet has eaten any part of these flowers, especially if they show signs of poisoning – such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or seizures – take them to the vet immediately.

Fleas, ticks and other parasites

While most parasites are active all year round, some thrive in the spring and summer due to the higher temperatures. It’s important to check any pets that live outside, such as rabbits and other small mammals, for flystrike in warmer and damp weather. Make sure you have a parasite prevention plan in place, and contact your veterinary team if you need information or support. 

Chocolate

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Chocolate is a popular Easter treat, however it can make dogs very ill and can even be fatal to them. This is due to a toxin called theobromine, a chemical used in chocolate manufacture. If you think your dog has eaten chocolate, or is showing signs of theobromine poisoning – muscle stiffness, tremors, vomiting or seizures – contact your vet immediately. There is more theobromine in dark chocolate than milk or white chocolate, but always check with your vet regardless of chocolate type. 

Sweets

Some sweets, chewing gum, medicine and even peanut butter contain an artificial sweetener called xylitol, which is very harmful to dogs, even in small amounts. If your dog eats any sweets, and shows signs of vomiting, lethargy, lack of coordination or seizures, contact your vet immediately. 

Packaging

Shiny foil and plastic eggs can be chewed and swallowed by pets and can cause an obstruction that may result in emergency surgery. Symptoms of digestive obstruction can include persistent vomiting, bloating, not passing faeces, weight loss – especially sudden – being lethargic and withdrawn, and dehydration. 

Hot cross buns

Hot cross buns are another popular Easter treat, but as they contain raisins and other dried fruits, they can lead to kidney failure in dogs if ingested.

Visitor overload

Lots of people like to visit friends and loved ones over Easter, however some pets can be unsettled by lots of guests visiting their home. Providing a safe quiet place for them to retreat to, for example an undisturbed bed in a quiet corner or another room, will help keep them calm and relaxed. 

We hope that you and your pets enjoy the spring months and longer sunnier days ahead.