Preparing Your Pets for Spring – The Clock is Ticking!!

Well the groundhog seen its shadow and the verdict is in.  SIX more weeks of Winter!! Forty two days or exactly 1008 hours before Spring makes its grand entrance. For pet owners that means we have 60,480 minutes to get our furry friends ready for warmer weather. The clock is ticking 3,628,800 seconds to go, are you ready? Here are some important things to keep in mind as you prepare your four-legged friends for Spring.

the Chip
NontrivialMatt / Foter / CC BY-NC-ND

 Schedule a Check-Up:   A visit to your vet will ensure your pet has all the latest vaccinations, is tested for heart worm and treated for the dreaded flea and tick season. A clean bill of health is the first step in making sure your pet is ready for Spring time activities.

 

 

Playing Fetch
MSVG / Foter / CC BY

Exercise: During the winter months pets often spend more time indoors.  They tend to get less exercise and even though it takes more calories to maintain their winter coat and stay warm many animals can put on a few extra pounds.  Now is the time to start shedding those extra pounds.  As the weather warms getting back into a daily exercise routine can be very beneficial for your pets health.  A visit to a local park where your pet can run and play is just one of the many ways you can kick-start your Spring exercise routine.

More Please...
vmabney / Foter / CC BY-NC-ND

Nutrition: Proper diet is equally important in preparing your pets for Spring.  Whether your pet needs to slim down or you’re just looking to maintain a healthy meal plan many fruits and vegetables such as apples, bananas, pears, blueberries, broccoli, carrots, pumpkin, and celery make great healthy snacks for your pet.   Remember to wash and remove any seeds before feeding them to your pet.

 

 

2005_1003_Doggy House SPA
Paige@Flickr / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA

Grooming & Pampering: Pets that feel better are happier, act friendlier and definitely  have more energy.   Grooming is a great way to bond with your pet but aside from daily brushing, weekly baths and an occasional trim, why not treat your pet to a day at the spa.  Many pet salons offer high end services, such as manicures, pedicures and spa treatments.  Remember a pampered pet is a happy pet!

Lastly now is a great time to freshen up your pets sleeping area. Whether your pet is an indoor or outside pet, now is the time to replace bedding, toys and other items that winter has taken its toll on.  The clock is ticking, but if you start now you’ll have plenty of time to get your pet ready for SPRING!!

 

 

 

 

 

By Michelle Thatcher

I am easy going, married and the mother of two adult boys. I love the Green Bay Packers, a good laugh and the change in seasons that the upper mid-west has to offer, although I am quietly dreaming of retiring in the warmth of the south someday. In my spare time you will find me traveling, motorcycling, doing crossword puzzles, or reading a good mystery.

2 comments

    1. We are ready for spring, for sure! The mountains of snow out my window have me dreaming of warmer days and playing in the park.

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