As the snow begins to melt and the days slowly grow longer, March brings a welcome shift toward spring. While we’re opening windows and thinking about fresh starts, it’s also the perfect time to make sure our pets are ready for the season ahead.
Here’s your simple spring-ready checklist from your friends at the Animal Protective Foundation:
- Prepare for Shedding Season
With warmer temperatures comes shedding — and lots of it.
Regular brushing:
- Reduces loose fur around your home
- Prevents painful matting
- Keeps skin healthy
- Helps you spot lumps, bumps, or skin changes early
Even short-haired pets benefit from a good brushing routine this time of year.
- Think Ahead About Flea & Tick Prevention
As temperatures rise, parasites wake up too. Fleas and ticks can become active earlier than many people expect — sometimes even before we fully feel like winter is over.
Talk with your veterinarian about:
- Preventative treatments
- When to start (or restart) seasonal protection
- Safe options for your specific pet
Prevention is always easier (and less expensive) than treatment.
- Watch for Springtime Hazards
Spring brings new plants, yard treatments, and holiday treats that can be dangerous to pets.
Be mindful of:
- Fertilizers and lawn chemicals
- Easter lilies (toxic to cats)
- Chocolate and candy
- Mulch and compost piles
If you’re unsure whether something is safe, it’s always best to check before your pet gets curious.
- Ease Back Into Outdoor Activity
If winter meant fewer walks and more couch time, ease your pet back into longer outdoor activity gradually.
Just like us, pets need time to rebuild endurance. Start with shorter walks and increase distance slowly — especially for senior pets.
- Schedule a Wellness Check
Spring is a great reminder to:
- Update vaccines
- Discuss dental health
- Review weight and nutrition
- Address any changes you’ve noticed over the winter
Preventative care helps ensure your pet stays healthy all year long.
Thinking of Adding a Pet This Spring?
March is also a beautiful time for new beginnings. If you’re considering adopting, the Animal Protective Foundation has wonderful dogs, cats, and small animals ready to find their forever homes.
Longer daylight hours and warmer weather make spring an ideal time to build routines, bond outdoors, and start fresh together.
Stop by the APF Tuesday–Saturday from 12:00–4:15 to meet your match.
Spring is a season of renewal — for our homes, our habits, and our pets. A little preparation now can help ensure a safe, happy, and healthy season ahead.
From all of us at APF, here’s to muddy paws, sunny walks, and fresh starts.
