If the cosy spring weather has got you in the mood for spring cleaning your home, you might want to consider going through a spring checklist for your pets as well. It’s that time of the year when we shed off the winter blues, open the doors and windows and step out into the bright sunny outdoors.
But before we do all that, let’s keep pets safe and healthy with these tips:
- Have your pet microchipped – Keep your pet safe even if they want to run outdoors. Microchipping them ensures they are returned safely to you in case they get lost.
- Spay and neuter – Love is in the air for pets who are mature enough for mating season. Having them desexed is part of responsible pet ownership and population control. They are also less likely to roam when they are spayed or neutered.
- Get them vaccinated – Because they are outside more often, their risk of catching diseases is also greater. This is a good time to check if your pets’ vaccines are up-to-date.
- Get plenty of exercise – Now that it is not so cold anymore, help your pet feel better and live longer by getting them to exercise regularly.
- Groom them – You may notice an increased amount of fur shedding as spring starts, this is because your pets shed their winter coat. Spring would be an ideal time for some daily grooming.
- Flea and tick control – The warmer months are notorious for the much-dreaded flea and tick infestation. While this should be done year-round, spring is the time to be most vigilant about getting them onto a flea control program.
- Don’t forget the heart – Pesky mosquitos will start buzzing around again during spring and summer, they spread heartworm disease. As such, it is crucial to get them on preventive medication or preventive injections.
- Wash beddings and toys – While you’re spring cleaning the house, throw your pet’s fabric toys and beddings in the wash. Leashes, collars and plastic toys could use a clean, too. You can do this by hand-washing them in hot, soapy water.
