RSPCA WA WARNS PET OWNERS OF FIVE ‘LIFE-THREATENING’ SPRING DANGERS
Source: 7NEWS (Extract)
Posted: October 14, 2022
Pet owners are being urged to be aware of potentially “life-threatening” dangers to their furry friends this spring.
Australia’s leading animal welfare organisation is warning animal lovers about the dangers of snake bites, bee stings and grass seeds – but also the lesser-known risks of skin allergies and garden risks.
Searches about dogs being bitten by snakes and suffering bee stings hit a year-high last month, with 200 searches in a single week, according to Australian Google Trends data, prompting the RSPCA to warn pet owners about the top five spring dangers.
RSPCA WA shelter manager Emily Smith told pet owners to prepare now.
“Cut long grass in the backyard and get rid of any rubbish, such as leftover timber or garden cuttings, which could make an appealing home for snakes,” she said.
When taking your furry friend out for a walk, make sure to keep them on a leash unless you are sure the area is safe and do not let them explore thick bushes or long grass where snakes could be hiding, Smith said.
As for bee stings, Smith said they were most common around pets’ mouths and feet, and reactions could range from mild irritation to full anaphylaxis.
“Signs such as swelling and your pet scratching, licking or chewing at the sting are pretty common, but if your pet is exhibiting hives, vomiting or difficulty breathing they should see a vet straight away,” she said.
While springtime may bring the usual coughing, sneezing and itchiness from hay fever for humans, Smith urged this behaviour in pets should not be ignored.
“There are lots of treatments available that can help keep your pet comfortable during those peak hay-fever months of October through December,” she said.
“Soothing baths, oral medications, antihistamine creams, or even pet inhalers are options you can discuss with your vet.”
Top five spring pet dangers
- Snakes: Signs of a snake bite include weakness, twitching muscles, difficulty blinking, loss of bladder and bowel control, dilated pupils and bloody urine. Contact a vet.
- Bee stings: Most common around your pet’s mouth and feet. If your pet is stung, remove the sting and contact a vet.
- Allergies: Watch for inflamed areas and rashes and monitor how much your pet scratches. Seek treatment for excessive sneezing, red eyes or a runny nose.
- Grass seeds: Once lodged in your pet’s skin, grass seeds can cause pain and swelling as well as severe problems like pneumonia and bladder infections. Check your pet weekly.
- Garden risks: Fertilisers, some garden mulches and plants and snail, rat and slug baits can be toxic to dogs and cats. Contact a vet immediately if your pet ingests them.