Spring Wellness Tips for Pet Owners

As the temperatures begin to rise and the flowers begin to bloom, the Humane Society of Missouri’s (HSMO) Animal Medical Center of Mid-America (AMCMA) wants to take this time to remind pet owners that spring is a great time to focus on your pet’s wellness and reassess their medical needs. Just like us, sometimes our furry friends can benefit from some seasonal adjustments to their health routine. Below are a few tips to keep in mind for spring pet wellness:

Schedule a Check-Up

• Spring is an ideal time to take your pet to the veterinarian for a routine check-up. A thorough examination can help identify any health issues your pet may have developed over the winter months. The vet can also update your pet’s vaccinations and recommend preventative measures for flea and tick season.

Get Active Outdoors

• Spring is the perfect time to get outside and be active with your pet. Longer daylight hours and warmer weather provide more opportunities for walks, hikes, and outdoor play. Regular exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also promotes good mental health for your pet.

Evaluate Your Pet’s Quality of Life

• If you notice your pet is lethargic and hesitant to run or climb stairs, it may be wise to schedule a visit with AMCMA’s Pain Management Center to discuss treatment that could bring your furry friend some relief. Senior pets or pups with mobility issues can recover their range of motion on AMCMA’s state-of-the-art underwater treadmills, undergo laser therapy to decrease inflammation and discomfort in their joints, simply lose weight with our veterinarian’s diet and exercise recommendations, or undergo a number of other treatments.

Prevent Warm Weather Parasites

• Heartworms, ticks, and fleas are all most active during the warmer months and can cause a variety of health issues for your pets. As with most medical issues, prevention is much easier than treatment. Pet parents should work with their veterinarian to determine the parasite prevention methods that are most suited for their individual pet’s lifestyle, age, weight, and other risk factors.

Watch for Allergies

• Spring is the peak season for allergies, not just for us but also for our pets. Common signs of allergies in pets include recurrent scratching, licking, and gnawing of affected areas. Keep an eye out for any unusual behaviors and seek advice from your veterinarian if you suspect your pet has an allergy.

By taking a few simple steps, you can help ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy throughout the season. Remember, if you have any concerns about your pet’s health, always consult your veterinarian for advice and guidance.

To learn more about spring wellness or in case of any pet emergency, make sure you have your veterinarian’s contact information handy. The Animal Medical Center of Mid-America has veterinarians that can answer questions about your pet’s health. Please call 314-951-1534 or visit amcma.org to request an appointment online.