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Spring Fever? Hopefully Not.

© Lesli Richardson

Spring cleaning, spring training, spring has sprung. This time of year, might as well go all the way; don't leave your pet out of the fun!

Any young animals that haven't been altered should be. Right now we're entering prime puppy and kitten season, and the tragedy is that most of those unwanted animals could have been prevented rather than euthanizing them later. Besides, altering animals makes them happier and healthier. It reduces or eliminates behaviors such as roaming, and marking territory, can reduce aggression in some animals, and has health benefits such as preventing testicular tumors in males and ovarian cancer and mammary tumors in females.

Also, with flea and tick season in full swing, you should update your pet's flea program or get them started on one if they're not already. There are many excellent topical and internal treatments available through your vet. Ticks can also cause deadly Lyme disease, and you can have your pet vaccinated for it if you are in an area that is plagued by that particular problem.

In many areas, especially southern and tropical climes, heartworms are a major problem. With warmer weather comes mosquitoes, the prime transmitter of this deadly disease. With so many different heartworm treatment products available, it's hard to imagine why any responsible pet owner wouldn't have their animals on a program.

And if shots are due, then do them. Also have you pet checked for intestinal parasites such as tape, round, and hook worms. If one animal in your household is positive, talk to your vet about testing and treating them all at the same time.

Are your pets a little on the chunky side? With good weather approaching take up family activities such as evening walks and afternoons at a dogs-welcomed park. Talk to local dog clubs and get involved in agility or flyball. Or do something as simple as signing up for a basic or remedial obedience class. Your physical health will benefit from it as well as the emotional bond between you and your pet. And while at your vet, talk to him or her about what they would recommend as far as type of diet and amount of food. Being overweight isn't any healthier for your dog than it is for you.

Take advantage of this time of year to catch-up with all your pet's needs. It's time and money well spent, and your dog will thank you.