We’re warning owners of the dangers that spring can bring for pets when they’re out in gardens and parks.
It’s the time of year when people like to banish the winter blues and get out in the fresh air, which can present a host of potential dangers to dogs and cats.
Hayley Buddery, Nursing Excellence Manager at our 24/7 animal hospital in Dewsbury, is urging animal lovers to be aware of the potential issues their pets could face.
Bulbs, weed killer, lawn feed and fertiliser can all be poisonous to pets and some plants are also toxic – including bluebells, which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and an irregular heartbeat.
And while ticks are alive in tall grass, lawns and woodland areas all year round, spring marks the first time of the year when pets are likely to come into contact with them.
Dog owners are also being warned to keep their pets on leads around new-born lambs as farmers have the legal right to shoot animals which worry their livestock.
“Spring always brings a real spike in cases for us,” said Hayley.
“People love to start work in their gardens and to go for walks at this time of year and it’s during these times that common problems start to show themselves.
“I’d urge them to be vigilant because flower bulbs, lawn feed, weed killer and fertiliser are all dangerous and can cause big problems.”
As well as the obvious dangers, homeowners are also being encouraged to check their sheds.
“It may sound odd but garden sheds are a threat too, especially for cats,” said Hayley.
“They can wander into the shed unnoticed and found a cosy place to settle down – and at the end of the day we lock up the shed up again, not realising there’s a cat inside.”
For more information, search for Calder Vets on Facebook.
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