Spring In Western Colorado Can Be Hazardous to Your Pet’s Health — Tips to Keep Them Safe

Each season can bring challenges for pet owners. Most of us are aware that the heat of summer and the cold of winter is stressful and even dangerous for many pets. Spring also brings it's share of hazards. Here are some tips to keep your pet healthy and safe as the weather warms.

Pets want to be outside more when the weather's warm, so it's important to do an inspection of your yard and pet housing. Mesa County Animal Services recommends looking for loose fencing, holes your pet can go under and stacked items they can climb on and go over. Make sure your pet's housing gets a good spring cleaning. It's also a good time to make any repairs.

Here are some other tips to keep your pet happy health and safe this spring.

• Keep un-neutered animals confined and under control. Females in heat can bring all kinds of uninvited guests, so having your yard escape-proof will also discourage intruders looking for romance. Better yet, have your pets spayed or neutered.

• Give your pets a good grooming. Daily brushing or a trip to the groomer will keep your pet healthy and happy. As a bonus, you'll spend less time sweeping hair off the floors and furniture.

• As you pet's activities increase, make sure you adjust their diet. Monitor food and water to make sure they're getting enough of both. Track your pet's weight. Gaining or losing weight may be a sign some diet changes are needed. However, significant changes may be a sign of other health issues.

• Be proactive with bugs, parasites and other irritants. Have your pet tested for heartworm and give them preventative medicine. Also, talk to your vet about keeping your pet free from ticks, fleas and mites.

• Lawn and garden products can be poisonous to your pets. Read the labels and follow the safety instructions. Always keep pets out of the area when applying herbicides pesticides and fertilizers.

[Mesa County Animal Services]