We’ve made it through winter, and now warmer days await us. But are you and your pet family ready for what summer brings? From crazy mozzies that go ‘zzz’ at night to adventures in the sun and everything in between – all will be enjoyable when you’ve done your preparation. Here’s a list of things that you need to get ready.
Spring cleaning
For some of us, spring also brings with it more energy, and what better time to spring clean your home? There are many reasons why you might want to spring clean your home, but for us, there are two main reasons – to get rid of parasites and their eggs and to clean out all the winter fur that your pet might be shedding in spring. When our pets shed their winter coats, especially longhaired cats and dogs, there will be plenty of hair lying around, and this needs to be cleaned.
But don’t stop inside your home. Also take some time to clean the outside of your house, especially if you have a garden. Make sure there aren’t any places where parasites can breed.
Yard
While you’re outside cleaning your yard, pack away any garden tools that might be lying around, make sure that hazardous chemicals are stored out of reach, and check that there aren’t any items in the garden that could harm your cat or dog.
Also, take a walk around the perimeter of your yard to check for holes in the fence where your dog could escape. If there are, fix them as soon as possible.
Laundry
As the days are getting warmer and the sun is out, it’s time to get more than the normal load of laundry done. Gather all your pets’ blankets, bedding, jackets and toys. It’s time to give them all a good wash. Keep in mind, your dog carries his toys in his mouth, and all the saliva can form a breeding ground for bacteria. Use warm water and dishwashing soap to wash his toys.
And while you’re at it, also wash his collars, harnesses and leads.
No parasites allowed
Have you kept up to date with your pets’ tick and flea preventative programmes? If not, make time now to plan and buy the necessary products to ensure that these nasty critters don’t invade your home, pets or yard.
Don’t forget about your pets’ deworming routine either. Remember that fleas and worms go hand in hand. Fleas ingest tiny worm eggs and then transmit them into the bloodstream of your pet when they feast on your pet’s blood.
Mosquitoes not only irritate people, but they also bite animals. Although mozzies normally don’t target pets with longer hair, they can still be a nuisance. There are pet-friendly natural insect repellents available on the market to protect your pets against mozzies. Try to eliminate their breeding grounds, which are usually bodies of stagnant water. You’ll be amazed at the spots they find to breed.
Grooming
Many pets shed their winter coats in spring. Whether you’ll be doing it yourself or scheduling an appointment with a professional groomer, it’s time for a good bath, brush and maybe a trim of your dog’s coat, depending on his coat type. While you’re at it, his nails may also need a good trimming and his teeth a professional cleaning at the vet.
Allergies
Unfortunately, spring also causes allergies in many pets due to a variety of allergens, like pollen in the air and insects. Try to find out what causes the allergy in your pet and see if you can take care of the allergen.
Get active again
Now that it is warmer, there are no more excuses to hide under the blankets. It’s time to get up and get out with your pets. Your pet might have gained some weight during the winter, and by getting active again, he will hopefully lose the extra weight. It is also good for his mental and physical health to be active, and you both will get some fresh air again.
Holiday planning
Are you going away on holiday at the end of the year? If Rufus is not going with you, now is the time to book the kennel or pet hotel. Reputable kennels and pet hotels fill up quickly, and you don’t want to ruin your holiday because you left the kennel booking too late.
The same goes for pet sitters. If you prefer a pet sitter to take care of your pets in your home, then be sure to book them now.
Enjoy the sun and warmer days. We all deserve it after a cold winter, but be sure that you and your pets are ready for summer.
