Easter is just around the corner! This is a fun time of year for our canine pals. Fido finally gets to run and play outside after being cooped up all winter. However, this time of year does present a few concerns for pet owners to be aware of. A Pickerington, OH vet offers advice on spending Easter with Fido in this article.
Chocolate
Chocolate and candies are at the top of our list of seasonal hazards. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which dogs can’t metabolize. Small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and elevated heartrate. Large doses can cause more serious problems, and can even be fatal. Plus, many chocolate treats contain things like nuts or raisins, which are toxic in and of themselves. Smaller candies and candy wrappers are also unsafe.
Preventative Care
As the weather warms up, parasite control becomes crucial. Fleas and ticks can not only make your furry pal miserably itchy, they can also transmit other parasites, as well as dangerous diseases. It’s also important to keep up with Fido’s heartworm prevention. Last but not least, make sure your pooch is current on his vaccinations.
Eggs
Are you hosting an Easter egg hunt? Double check to make sure that all of the eggs have been picked up. Cooked eggs spoil quickly. However, that won’t keep Fido from eating them.
Decorations
Those pretty spring bouquets can spell major trouble for Man’s Best Friend! Many flowers that are often found in Easter flower arrangements are toxic to dogs. Lilies, tulips, daffodils, irises, and gladiolas are a few common ones. The ASPCA website has more information on safe and unsafe plants
here.
Food
If you’re hosting this year’s holiday meal, pay close attention to what you offer your pooch. Ham isn’t really great for dogs. Other dangerous foods include garlic, onions, scallions, and chives; pitted fruit, especially avocado; caffeine; alcohol; grapes, currants, and raisins; raw dough, meat, or yeast; meat on the bone; and anything that contains xylitol. If you want to give your furry friend a special snack, offer him some plain, cooked meat, fish, or chicken; deli meat; or a gourmet dog treat.
Decorations
Keep Fido in mind as you decorate! Cardboard decorations, plastic eggs, and plastic ‘grass’ can pose serious choking risks to your canine buddy!
Happy Easter! Please reach out to us, your Pickerington, OH vet clinic, anytime. We’re here to help!
