10 Things Illinois Dog Owners Must Know As Spring Arrives

Spring is a great time to get outside with your pup to let them explore and soak up the smells and fresh air, but there are some things to keep in mind as the seasons change.

Warmer temperatures, seasonal allergies, and spring cleaning chemicals are just a few of the dangers for dogs during the change of season, but with a few precautions for your pup, there will be nothing but fun in the sun for you and your fur babies.

Here are 10 Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe Through Springtime:

Temps Are Warmer Than You Think

With temperatures beginning to rise, make sure to keep your dog hydrated and in the shade on sunny days to avoid overheating, and NEVER leave them inside a parked car. Even in the spring, temps inside a locked car can rise to dangerous levels in minutes.

The Bugs are Back

Bugs, insects, and other parasites are out in full force during the damp spring days so make sure your dog is protected from heartworms, fleas, and ticks.

Plants and Flowers are Pretty But Toxic

Dogs love to chew on anything that's within reach, so keep the plants and flowers like lilies, daffodils, and tulips out of reach of your pets.

Cleaning Products Are Poison

If only dogs knew what that Yuck face sticker meant, but if it smells good to your pooch, they could easily ingest anything you keep under the kitchen sink so keep it out of reach like you have a small child in the house, because you do.

No Paint for The Pup

Springtime means new projects around the house, so keep your dog in mind when you're working with paint, paint thinner, and other toxic chemicals.

Plastic Eggs and Fake Grass

During your Easter celebrations, all the chocolate candy, plastic eggs, and fake grass can be deadly to your dogs' intestines, so don't even tempt them. Keep it way out of reach.

How Sturdy Are Your Window and Door Screens?

Nothing feels better than opening your window to get a cool spring breeze through the house, but if your window screens aren't solid, your dogs and cats can easily bust through them, so make sure they're snug.

Get Your Buddy Buckled Up

If your dog love to go along for a ride, don't let them be a projectile in your vehicle. Make sure to keep them in a crate or use a seat-belt specially designed for dogs.

Garden Chemicals Are Not Treats

While you're out removing weeds from the garden and flower beds, make sure to keep an eye on the chemicals you're using. Check to see which are safe for pets and never leave anything laying around where pets can easily access chemicals or garden tools.

Avoid The Puddle Licking

Afternoon showers can create standing water which can be a breeding ground for bacteria, so avoid letting your dog lick from these parasite puddles.