Spring things to be on the lookout for to keep your dog safe!

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Springtime can be a fun and exciting time for both humans and dogs, but it can also pose some potential hazards for our furry friends. As the weather gets warmer and we start celebrating holidays like Easter and Passover, it's important to be aware of some of the hazards that can put our dogs at risk.

One of the biggest hazards during the spring holidays is plastic grass for baskets and plastic eggs. These items can be easily ingested by dogs and cause an obstruction in their digestive system, leading to potentially life-threatening consequences. It's important to keep these items out of reach of your dog, and to supervise them closely when they are around Easter baskets or other holiday decorations.

Another hazard during the spring holidays is chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, and even seizures. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are particularly dangerous, as they contain higher levels of theobromine. If you suspect your dog has ingested chocolate, it's important to contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.

In addition to these holiday-specific hazards, there are also a number of plants that can be toxic to dogs during the spring. Some examples include:

1. Azaleas and Rhododendrons: These plants contain a toxin called grayanotoxin, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, cardiac arrest.

2. Lily of the Valley: This plant contains cardiac glycosides, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias.

3. Tulips and Hyacinths: These plants contain toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, tremors, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias.

If you suspect that your dog has ingested any of these plants or any other potentially toxic substances, it's important to contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. They can provide expert advice and guidance on what to do next. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can be reached at (888) 426-4435.

There are also a number of apps available that can help you identify potentially toxic plants and provide information on what to do if your dog ingests them. Some top-rated apps include:

1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Mobile App: This app provides a comprehensive database of plants, chemicals, and other substances that are toxic to pets, as well as instructions on what to do if your pet is exposed.

2. Pet Poison Helpline App: This app provides a searchable database of common toxins and provides information on symptoms, treatment, and first aid.

3. PictureThis App: This app helps you identify plants by taking a picture and provides information on whether they are toxic to pets.

4. iNaturalist App: This app can help you identify plants and animals in your local area and provides information on their toxicity to pets.

In conclusion, while spring can be a fun and exciting time for both humans and dogs, it's important to be aware of the potential hazards that can put our furry friends at risk. By taking some simple precautions and being aware of the potential dangers, you can help ensure that your dog stays safe and healthy throughout the spring and beyond.