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(520) 572-8300
7555 W Twin Peaks Rd.
Tucson, AZ 85743

Foxtails & Spring Hazards for Pets

Now that winter is over, the danger of your pet developing hypothermia is gone. However, springtime brings a whole new set of worries. There are several things you should make sure your pet avoids this spring. At Twin Peaks Veterinary Center in Tucson, AZ, our veterinarian will educate you on how to keep your pet safe during the spring.

Ticks

Ticks are a serious issue during the spring. They live in the grass and will attach themselves to your pet’s fur and feed on its blood. If your pet is bitten by a tick infected with Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or any other tick-borne disease, your pet will develop the disease as well, which can be fatal. It is essential that you give your pet flea and tick preventive medication all year long.

Heartworm

Heartworm is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes. This disease can affect the heart and lungs, and if it isn’t treated, it can be deadly. However, heartworm is preventable. Give your pet heartworm pills once a month. Also, try to remove any standing water from your property, which where mosquitoes are commonly found.

Thawing Bodies of Water

If you have a lake, pond, or stream around your home, your pet might have tried to walk on the ice during the winter. Now that spring is here, these bodies of water will start to thaw, but your pet may not realize it. If your pet walks across a thawing body of water, your pet can drown or develop hypothermia. It is best to keep your pet close to home until the body of water has thawed completely.

Fertilizer

Spring is the time to plant your garden. However, for your pet’s sake, you need to be careful. Most fertilizers contain pesticides, fungicides, or herbicides. These chemicals won’t necessarily poison your pet, but in large quantities, your pet can develop gastrointestinal issues or pancreatic problems. It is best to fence off the garden to keep your pet away.

Foxtails

Foxtail plants are dangerous for your pet. The foxtail plant is a grass-like weed that contains barbed seed heads that can get stuck in your pet’s fur. The seeds can also enter your pet’s nose, ears, eyes, and mouth. These seeds don’t break down and can cause an infection in your pet. If you have foxtail plants on your property, for the safety of your pet, it is best to pull them up.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian in Tucson, AZ

If your pet has fallen victim to any spring hazards, contact Twin Peaks Veterinary Center in Tucson, AZ immediately. Our veterinarian will treat your pet, which could potentially save its life. Call us today to schedule an appointment.