Fido’s Top Tips for a Healthy Spring:

Exercise: Warmer weather means we're all feeling a little more active. It is normal for dogs to store fat in winter, but a heavier dog needs to begin spring exercise gently. Just like people, your dog will want to ease back into an outdoor exercise routine. Increase walks and runs in the park steadily, but gradually.
Allergies: Dogs get springtime allergies just like us. Like people, dogs can build allergies over time, so don't be surprised if your dog's reaction to allergens changes from puppy to adult. Pollen from flowering trees, dandelions and tulips, dust, mold and even insects can cause allergic reactions. Symptoms include itching, coughing, sneezing, flaky skin or an oily-feeling coat. Never use human allergy medicines for dogs - canine allergy medicines are effective; your vet can prescribe the safest dose.
Toxic Plants and Mulch: We love to look at spring plants - dogs love them too. Beware. Many spring bulbs are a toxic threat to your pet. Cocoa mulch, often used as bedding mulch for park side flower beds, is highly toxic to dogs as well. Keeping your dog out of the flower beds is safest for them - the plants will appreciate it too!
Skin Care: Spring is shedding season. This is normal, but care should be given since the weather is a combination of cold and warm temps. Dogs can develop skin allergies due to excessive sweating, or suffer from dryness. Be sure to brush your dog regularly - this helps restore the natural oils in their skin.