WE have talked about getting stickies together for the different seasons. Admittedly Spring for those climes that have four seasons is probably a bit different to areas where it is almost Summer all the time.
So here goes:
1. THe crazies Come Out! Already in Toronto we have had two reports of chocolate strewn around a dog park, and suspicious looking meat strewn around.
2. Your best defence is teach your Dog the Drop It and Leave it Commands.
3. The snow has melted and there are all sorts of things that have now been un-covered. Be extra alert to look ahead to the ground you are going to cover.
4. Temperature fluctuations It might start out cool in the morning, but temperature can rise pretty quickly. So don't leave your dog in the car for extended periods of time. In fact don't leave your dog in the car is the best advice.
5. If you can't wait to get out and hike, remember to start slow and increase the time. Ditto if you cycle or jog with your dog. And carry water please.
6. Paw care. Make sure you check their pawpads, most especially if they have been indoor all winter, they will have softened up. THistles in the grass already here have started to come out, and they do hurt the pads when your dog steps or runs over them.
7. Get your dogs Spring time tune up at your vets.
8. If you are lucky enough to have a lake to swim in, just remember right now the beach area will be filled with "junk" and that water is likely to be cold. So take care, and start slowly with the water work. No long tosses. Work parallel to the shore line. Just remember who is going into that water to help out your dog in trouble.... That would be you
Hypothermia can set in quite quickly. In fact I always use a life jacket on each dog, at the start to the swimming season.
9. More on water: Rivers and creeks will start to run pretty quickly, and currents can be very strong. Take care walking along the river banks. Neither you nor your dog want to slip in.
10. Review your garden plants and make sure your garden is Toxic plant free. Also the mulch you use.
ENjoy your Spring. Waterfalling is an awesome thing to do in the Spring.