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We’re a mere few days away from spring, which means warmer days, longer park runs, and outdoor adventures. However, as the temperature rises, it also ushers in a few seasonal challenges for our beloved furry friends. From sudden spikes in parasite populations to sneaky environmental triggers, keeping your pets protected as it starts to warm up should be a priority.
Not sure where to start? We’ve got you! Here is what to keep an eye on, along with simple ways to keep your pet safe.
The silent surge of spring parasites
As the weather warms up across Australia and New Zealand, parasite activity (specifically fleas, ticks, and worms) increases significantly. Paralysis ticks pose a serious health risk, while fleas and intestinal worms can quickly turn a fun afternoon outdoors into an itchy, uncomfy problem. The best choice you can make is to be proactive with prevention rather than waiting for symptoms to show up. We’d suggest stocking up on long-lasting protection like the Bravecto flea, tick and worming range to keep your dog or cat shielded all season long.
Seasonal pollen and itchy skin
Just like humans suffer from seasonal hay fever, pets are highly susceptible to spring pollen, blooming flowers, and fresh grass. Seasonal skin allergies often present as incessant scratching, inflamed red patches, or constant paw-licking, which can often be mistaken for flea bites.
To protect your firstborn, wipe down your pet’s paws after outdoor walks, bathe them with soothing, natural shampoos, and speak with an expert about allergen management if you know that they’re susceptible or notice the signs. You wouldn’t wanna be itchy all over all season, would you?
The unpredictable Aussie heat and dehydration
Early spring heat waves can catch even the most diligent pet parents off guard. Because pets are still carrying their heavier winter coats, a sudden warm afternoon during a game of fetch or after a long walk can lead to rapid overheating and dehydration faster than expected. Always pack a collapsible water bowl for outings, avoid exercising your dog during peak sun hours, and ensure cats have multiple fresh hydration stations set up around the home.
Other animals
Spring always marks the return of our native wildlife and insects like snakes, bees, wasps, and spiders that have been dormant through the cooler months. Curious dogs sniffing through tall grass and cats exploring garden beds are at high risk for painful stings or dangerous bites. Stick to well-cleared paths during walks, keep your backyard grass neatly trimmed, and keep a close eye on your pet whenever they are exploring high-vegetation areas.
Outdated prevention routines and lapsed schedules
It is easy for routine care to slip during the quiet winter months, but using expired treatments or missing protection windows leaves your pet vulnerable right when spring hazards peak. Take a quick moment to audit your supply cupboard, clear out old products, and set up a reliable schedule so your pet never misses a dose. We’re big on setting calendar reminders and alarms in our house so that we never miss a beat.
If you do get caught out, just remember that places like Petstock can have a Click & Collect ready in 15 minutes, free shipping over $25 for metro areas, and 15 per cent off when you set up Autoship’s regular deliveries.
It’s worth noting that Petstock currently has 40 per cent off the Bravecto and Bravecto Plus range from now until September 29, so if you do need to stock up on flea and tick protection or worming tablets, jump on it.
Image: PetStock
