Spring blooms can bring danger, so take care

View slideshow
Oxalis' pretty little blooms can turn deadly if they work their way into a pet's coat or, worse, under its skin.PAUL BERSEBACH, ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

Dear Readers,

Every spring I begin to get letters that relate to problems encountered during this time of year. So rather than address a particular letter, I'm going to cover several of the most common topics that people write about.

First, pretty little yellow oxalis flowers are especially abundant right now and will very quickly turn into the bane of all pets – those offensive little burrs that tangle themselves up so tightly into fur, they are nearly impossible to remove. What's worse, they can work their way into the skin and flesh of a pet, causing horrible discomfort and often-serious infections. These spiny balls also have the nasty habit of getting into ears and noses, which can be unbearable for animals. Veterinary bills associated with the removal of these burrs and subsequent wound treatment, medication, etc., can inflict equally painful wounds on bank accounts!

Now is the time to take precautions to ensure your pet remains burr-free. If you notice oxalis weeds in your lawn, pull them up before they have a chance to mature, or treat your lawn with weed killer. You should also remove or treat foxtails in your grass, which pose similar health threats.

If you walk your dogs at a community park or greenbelt that appears to be growing dangerous weeds, alert your city hall. The staff can direct you to the person or department that oversees lawn maintenance.

Brush your pets daily. By doing so, you will be able to remove foreign objects that get into the fur before they do any damage. This is also a good time to consider giving your companion animals a warm weather "hair-do." Aside from the fact that a short coat does not gather burrs easily, a neat clip also allows pets to stay cool and comfortable.

Springtime means an abundance of baby wildlife everywhere. If you don't already do so, keep your cats indoors so they don't become dinner for a litter of coyote pups. Monitor small- to medium-sized dogs when they are in the back yard. Do not leave them unattended, even for a short time. Coyotes can jump over any residential fence, grab your pet and leave in a matter of seconds.

If you see baby wild animals that appear to be "orphaned," please leave them alone, no matter how cute and vulnerable they appear. Most likely, their mom is close by and will not appreciate anyone handling their young. You could be putting yourself in danger if you try to pick up a baby wild animal. Mothers of most species WILL attack. If somehow you do manage to take a baby wild animal home, the chances of its survival are reduced dramatically. They need their real moms to provide care. You can't adequately deliver the diet and "education" they need to be healthy and successful adult animals; furthermore, it's against the law. If you do believe a wild animal needs help, please contact your local animal control. They will be able to better assess the situation and take steps if necessary.

Spring is also the time of year that companion animals have "romance" on their minds if they have not been spayed or neutered. They will run away from home looking for love, and there are far too many dangers in the big bad world, from predators to cars to contagious diseases. It is difficult – if not impossible – to contain animals who are looking for mates. One simple mistake, like leaving a gate or door open, could lead to the permanent loss of a beloved companion animal.

Many pet owners think they can prevent their companion animals from random mating. Based on the numbers of kittens and puppies that turn up in shelters each year, they are sadly mistaken. Having your pets spayed or neutered will take away that wanderlust and allow them to remain safe and sound at home. They will not contribute to pet overpopulation ... and they will live longer, healthier lives. If you have intact animals at home, please consider having them spayed or neutered.

Finally, appreciate the longer days and the warmer weather that springtime brings. During the winter, people are hesitant to go outside in the cold and play with their dogs. Now is the time to get out in the sunshine and toss a few balls and take some long walks. You'll get into shape, and your pets will be thrilled! Playtime with pets increases the bond people have with their animals, and vice versa. It's a great time for everyone, so enjoy every moment.

Contact the writer:

User Agreement

Comments are encouraged, but you must follow our User Agreement


Programs & Promotions
Business Directory
Ads by Google