Every season brings new opportunities to enjoy time with your pet, but it also introduces unique challenges that can impact their health. At The Pets Place Animal Hospital, we believe preventive care and awareness of seasonal hazards are key to keeping your furry friend happy and thriving all year long. Let’s take a look at seasonal wellness tips and the importance of scheduling regular veterinary wellness exams to support your pet’s lifelong health.

Spring: Prevent Allergies and Parasites

As flowers bloom and temperatures rise, so do allergens and parasites. Pollen can cause sneezing, itching, and watery eyes in both humans and pets. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes also become more active.

Tips for Spring:

•          Start or renew flea, tick, and heartworm prevention.

•          Watch for signs of seasonal allergies such as excessive scratching or licking.

•          Keep lawns trimmed and avoid letting pets roll in high grass where parasites hide.

Summer: Beat the Heat

High temperatures and increased outdoor activity in the summer can put pets at risk for heat exhaustion, dehydration, and sunburn.

Tips for Summer:

•          Never leave pets in a parked car, even for a short time.

•          Provide plenty of shade and fresh water during outdoor play.

•          Avoid walking on hot pavement which can burn paw pads.

•          Keep up with parasite prevention since mosquito and tick activity peaks.

Fall: Prepare for Change

Cooler temperatures and shorter days signal that fall has arrived. Seasonal foods and decorations also become more common, some of which can be dangerous to pets.

Tips for Fall:

•          Keep pets away from Halloween candy, especially chocolate and xylitol.

•          Be cautious with decorations that can be chewed or swallowed.

•          Adjust outdoor activity routines as temperatures drop and daylight shortens.

Winter: Protect Against the Cold

Cold weather can be especially harsh on pets, particularly smaller breeds or those with thinner coats. It also brings risks such as antifreeze poisoning and frostbite.

Tips for Winter:

•          Limit time outdoors during freezing temperatures.

•          Wipe paws after walks to remove salt and deicing chemicals.

•          Ensure bedding is warm and draft free.

•          Store antifreeze safely out of reach as it is highly toxic to pets.

Why Regular Wellness Exams Matter Year Round

Regardless of the season, the most important thing you can do for your pet is to schedule regular veterinary wellness exams. These visits allow our team to detect early signs of disease, provide routine care such as vaccines and dental checks, and discuss any behavioral or nutritional concerns. Wellness exams are also the perfect time to adjust your pet’s care plan based on the season.

Keep Your Pet Healthy in Every Season

Caring for your pet means staying proactive throughout the year. Each season presents its own set of challenges, but with a little preparation and consistent preventive care, you can help your pet stay comfortable, safe, and healthy no matter the time of year.

Schedule a wellness exam at The Pets Place Animal Hospital for expert care and personalized recommendations to keep your pet healthy all year round. Visit our office in Riverside, California, or call (951) 684-2181to book an appointment today.