Spring is one of dog owners’ favourite seasons: longer days, pleasant weather and finally longer walks together outdoors. However, as nature wakes up, not only flowers and green spaces appear, but also certain risks worth paying attention to. Ticks, seasonal allergies and other environmental factors can all affect your dog’s health – but with the right attention they can be managed well.
Ticks: one of spring’s greatest dangers
As the weather warms, ticks become increasingly active. They are most commonly found in grassy, bushy areas, but you can also encounter them in urban parks.
Ticks are not only unpleasant; they can also transmit dangerous diseases, such as babesiosis and Lyme disease. This is why prevention is important. You can choose from several options: collars, spot-on treatments or tablets can all help provide protection. It is worth consulting a veterinarian to find out which is most suitable for your dog.
After every walk, check your dog’s coat thoroughly, especially around the ears, neck, armpits and between the legs. If you find a tick, remove it as soon as possible.
How?
- Prepare the tool
Use tick-removal tweezers or a tick-removal hook. These are designed specifically for this purpose, so they are safer than ordinary tweezers. - Part the fur
Gently part your dog’s fur around the tick so you can clearly see where it is attached to the skin. - Grip the tick close to the skin
Use the tool to grip the tick by its head, as close to the skin as possible. It is important not to squeeze its body. - Pull it out firmly
Pull it out with a slow, steady movement. There is no need to twist it; the key is a straight, continuous pull. - Check that it has been removed completely
Check that the tick’s head has not remained in the skin. If it has, or if you are unsure, it is worth consulting a vet. - Disinfect the area
Clean and disinfect the bite site. - Monitor the area over the next few days
Check that no redness, swelling or unusual behaviour develops. If it does, consult a professional.
Allergies: when it isn’t only people who sneeze
Spring allergies do not affect only people. Dogs can also react to pollen, dust or other environmental factors.
Allergy symptoms can vary in dogs. Common signs may include:
- increased scratching,
- redness,
- paw licking,
- ear infections,
- hair loss in certain areas.
If you notice anything like this, it is worth consulting a vet, as untreated allergies can lead to more serious problems over time. In many cases, symptoms can be eased with small changes, such as cleaning the paws and coat more frequently.
After the walk: small routines, big difference
During spring, it is especially important to establish a simple but consistent routine after walks.
It’s a good idea to:
- wipe your dog’s paws and belly,
- check their coat for ticks,
- brush their coat if necessary.
These small steps help remove pollen and other contaminants, reducing the chance of allergic reactions and contributing to your dog’s overall comfort.
Where to walk in spring?
In spring, wild areas with tall grass can be especially tempting, but they are also ticks’ favourite habitats. That does not mean you have to avoid them entirely, but it is worth choosing your route carefully.
If you would like to reduce the risk:
- stay on well-trodden paths,
- avoid dense undergrowth,
- even in urban areas, watch out for less well-maintained parts of parks.
Choosing your route carefully can go a long way towards bringing fewer “unwanted guests” home.
Enjoy spring safely
Spring is the ideal time to spend more time outdoors, explore your surroundings, and try new places. The presence of ticks and allergies does not mean you have to miss out — it simply requires awareness.
If you pay attention to prevention and establish a few simple routines, your walks together can continue to be a carefree and joyful experience for both of you.