5 Ways To Prepare Your Pet For Spring Weather

Spring Pet Care Tips for Dogs and Cats in Columbus, Ohio

Spring is here! It’s time to get your outdoor pets ready for longer walks, trips to the park, and plenty of time in the sun!

While exciting, this seasonal transition from cold to warm weather can pose risks like allergies, fleas, ticks, and exposure to unsafe plants and chemicals.

Here’s 5 pet care tips you can implement this spring season to ensure your pet is happy and healthy at all times!

Tip #1: Allergy Prevention Measures

Springtime means blooming flowers and trees, which can trigger allergies in pets just like in us humans. While you can’t control the environment at large, you can control where and when you decide to walk your dog. You can also be proactive about managing your internal, home environment.

Overall, keep an eye out for excessive scratching, sneezing, or coughing in your pet. If you suspect your pet has serious allergies, consult your veterinarian for treatment options. Your vet will likely prescribe antihistamines, mild steroids, and/or even dietary supplements to help combat those nasty allergens. You may also consider a more natural approach – continue reading to learn about our secret home remedy!

Stick to sidewalks, pavement, and walking at optimal times of the day

If possible, avoid coming into contact with a lot of grass, trees, and flowers, where pollen typically resides. Also, avoid walking your dog in the early morning or late afternoon, when pollen levels are typically highest. Thank goodness, though by coincidence, our pet parents usually schedule our dog walkers in Columbus, Ohio to come by in the mid-afternoon!

Curate your home environment

While most of the outside environment is out of your control, there are things you can do to make your internal, home environment more comfortable for your allergy-prone pet:

  • Regularly change air filters to cut down on airborne allergens that enter through open doors and windows. It is recommended that you change your air filter about every 60 days if you or your pet suffer from severe allergies. Consult a local expert if you are not sure what air filter is right for your home.
  • Run an air conditioner or a dehumidifier to remove moisture from interior air. This makes it harder for mold to grow in your home. 
  • Regularly vacuum or wash areas that can easily carry allergens. This includes carpets, bedding, pet beds, and toys. Pollen tends to stick to fabrics, so make sure you are washing those materials regularly, too.

Wipe paws, underbellies and if possible, provide more baths!

When you return from being outside with your pet, wipe their body and paws with a cool, moist cloth or a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free grooming wipe from your local pet store. This will remove the extra pollen and other allergens from your pup’s fur and skin. Of course, grooming wipes can’t replace the glorious magic of a good bath, but they get the job done if you don’t have time for a bath after every walk and game of fetch.

If you do have the time, it’s always a good idea to treat your pup to a bath. Regular bathing is healthy for your pup’s fur and skin. It’s also a good way to increase the bond between you and pet. Make sure you’re using pet-friendly shampoos and products in order to best maximize the benefits of regular bathing.

Tip #2: Protect against fleas, ticks, and bugs

As the temperature rises, the likelihood of fleas and ticks also increases. These pesky parasites can cause a range of problems for your pet, including itching, discomfort, and even serious illnesses like Lyme disease. To protect your pet against fleas and ticks, it’s essential to use the right preventative measures. This could include topical treatments, collars, or oral medications that are designed to repel or kill fleas and ticks.

If you prefer a more natural approach, you can also try using essential oils, such as lavender or peppermint, to repel these parasites. However, it’s important to do your research and consult with your vet before using any natural remedies, as some essential oils can be harmful to pets.

In addition to preventative measures, it’s also important to regularly check your pet for pests. Especially after time spent outdoors. Look for any bites, itching, or small black or brown spots on your pet’s skin. Consult your vet accordingly.

Tip #3: Update shots, vaccinations, and consider a microchip procedure

More time spent outside means more opportunities for your fur baby to wander off and meet new friends. While we all love to witness a sweet animal friendship, it’s important to take precautions to make sure your pet stays safe. They can easily contract illnesses from contact with other animals outside. It’s important to ensure all parties involved are up-to-date on shots and vaccinations. 

We also recommend making sure your dog is microchipped and has an ID tag. A dog’s instinct is to wander and explore everything in their surroundings while outdoors. This could potentially lead to them going missing. In the event that your pet does get lost, a microchip greatly increases their chances of being reunited with you. It’s a quick and painless procedure that can give you peace of mind and keep your furry friend totally safe.

Tip #4: Reduce exposure to unsafe cleaning products

As the weather gets warmer and you begin to open your windows and clean out your junk drawers, double check that your cleaning products are pet-friendly. If they are not, keep them hidden in a secure location, away from your pet!

Almost all cleaning products, even all-natural ones, contain chemicals that may be harmful to pets. The key to using them safely is to read and follow the directions on the labels. There is likely a pet protocol included on the back of these products.

Better yet, you might just consider investing in pet-friendly products only. That’s our best recommendation!

@betterpup

Pet-Friendly house cleaners for spring cleaning! #YasClean #springcleaning #dogproducts #dogtips

♬ YAS CLEAN! – Clorox Scentiva feat. Billy Porter

Spring is also a popular time of year for home-improvement projects. If you happen to be completing one that involves the use of hazardous products ranging from paint to power tools, try to keep your pup in a safe location away from all harmful materials. Keep them in a separate room, their kennel, or better yet just sign up for our dog walking services in Columbus, Ohio while you get those spring to-do’s accomplished!

Tip #5: Keep a safe yard

Spring gardening can be a fun and rewarding activity for both humans and pets! To ensure maximum safety, it’s essential to choose pet-friendly plants. Some common flowers and shrubs, such as tulips, daffodils, and azaleas, can be toxic to pets if ingested. It’s best to do some research or consult with your veterinarian to determine which plants are safest for your pets.

In addition to selecting pet-friendly plants, it’s crucial to keep your yard free of fungi. Some fungi, such as mushrooms, can be fatal if ingested by dogs. Keep an eye on your yard and remove any mushrooms or fungi immediately.

When using fertilizers, make sure to follow the pet safety instructions on the package. Chemicals in fertilizers can be very toxic to dogs, so it’s best to store them in a safe area, just like your home cleaning products. Consider using organic and natural fertilizers that are safe for pets and the environment.

Bonus Tip: Hire a dog walker!

You can truly take advantage of the warmer temps by hiring Hands N Paws for regular dog walking services in Columbus, Ohio! This will ensure your pup is getting consistent exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation. Additionally, spring is a great time to introduce new toys, puzzles, and outdoor activities like agility training, fetch, and exploring new parks and trails. There are many things you can do to improve your pup’s health and wellness, and the spring season is the perfect time to get started!

At-Home Hacks for Springtime Pet Care

Spring pet care hacks for pet parents in Columbus, Ohio
Feel free to download and save for future reference!

Embrace Springtime in Columbus, Ohio to the Fullest!

Springtime and warmer weather can bring a sense of excitement and rejuvenation for people. As the snow melts away and flowers begin to bloom, it’s a reminder that new beginnings are possible. The sunnier days mean more time spent outside, whether it’s spent gardening, hiking, or simply lounging in the backyard.

For pet parents, warmer weather means more opportunities to spend quality time with their furry friends, exploring new parks and trails or simply soaking up the sunshine on a leisurely stroll. Spring also comes with its own set of challenges for pet parents, such as allergies, fleas and ticks, and keeping pets safe during outdoor activities. Don’t forget to incorporate the tips mentioned above so that you can ensure your pet stays happy and healthy this spring season!

Disclaimer: This blog article includes are our best suggestions to help you prepare for spring weather as it relates to your pet’s health and wellness. Please note that we are not medical professionals.

Benny

Benny

Hello! Thanks for visiting our blog. I'm the proud owner of Columbus's own Hands N Paws, started in 2018 to bring joy to pet parents. See you in the next post!

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The terms of this agreement are as follows: “Client” refers to you, “Company” refers to us (Hands N Paws), “Team Member” refers to the person from our team providing services for  your pets, and “Team Members” refers to the Hands N Paws team as a whole.

EMERGENCY VETERINARY TREATMENT & CLIENT RESPONSIBILITY POLICY

It is important to inform Hands N Paws of any specific emergency instructions or medical conditions related to Client’s pets. This will help ensure the safety and well-being of pets during emergencies.

In case any of Client’s pets need emergency veterinary treatment, Team Member will contact the designated vet on file and/or a local emergency vet. Team Member will also communicate with Client and/or emergency contacts regarding the situation.

Client gives permission to Team Member to transport the pet(s) to a veterinary clinic and/or make treatment decisions (except for euthanasia), especially if it’s a life-threatening emergency and/or Client cannot be immediately reached. Client is responsible for any veterinary fees incurred. 

Client releases Hands N Paws from any liability for any damage or harm to pets or property that occurs beyond the reasonable control of Team Member during the provision of emergency veterinary care. 

PET VACCINATION, LICENSING, AND IDENTIFICATION POLICY

To comply with local laws and ordinances, it is required that all pets have the appropriate vaccinations and licenses before Company begins services. For further information on these requirements, please visit the Ohio State Bar Association’s website at https://www.ohiobar.org/public-resources. Client should also check with his/her veterinarian to determine which vaccinations/shots the pet requires. 

For safety reasons, we encourage all dogs and cats to wear an ID tag or collar that includes name and contact number while Team Member is working with them.

SECURE ACCESS & LOCKBOX POLICY

To ensure access to Client’s home during scheduled services, Hands N Paws requires that Client purchases a lockbox and places a spare house key(s) inside of it for Team Member to use. Client can purchase the lockbox on Hands N Paws’ website by clicking Buy Your Lockbox. Once it arrives, the lockbox should be programmed with a unique four-digit code. The lockbox should then be placed on the main door handle or in another secure location, and the lockbox code and location information must be entered in the Client’s account on Precise Petcare.

Alternatively, Client may elect to provide a code for entry via a garage door or electronic keypad and if so, must enter all necessary codes in Precise Petcare. Client is strongly encouraged to purchase a lockbox, however, to ensure that Team Member can access pets at all times during scheduled services, especially in situations where the power goes out or batteries die and Team Member need alternative access to the home.

CLIENT COMMUNICATION & PRIVACY POLICY

All Team Members have access to Clients phone number, but are instructed to only use them when necessary or for urgent purposes during services with pets. Hands N Paws prioritizes the privacy and confidentiality of phone numbers as personal information.

All correspondence between Client and Team Member should be centered around Client’s pets and the services provided. If Client has inquiries regarding scheduling, cancellations, app-related matters, or any company-related concerns, these are to be directed to the Company via the office number: (614) 636-6644. The Company’s client support team is available during office hours, Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm. We are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Federal Holidays. The Company will make contact with Client outside of office hours should there be any urgent need for communication.

PET INFORMATION ACCURACY & ACCESSIBILITY POLICY

In order to provide the best possible service to pets, it is crucial that Client provides Team Member with detailed and up-to-date information regarding their pets. This information should be accurate, complete, and accessible through the Client’s account in Precise Petcare. Team Members can only work on the basis of the information that is available to them through the Client’s account in Precise Petcare. Likewise, Client acknowledges that the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information they provide directly impacts the quality of the services delivered. Client, therefore, takes full responsibility for any consequences that arise from inaccurate, incomplete, or outdated account information.

FLEXIBLE SERVICE ARRIVAL TIME POLICY

Arrival times for services occur within a two-hour period. Team Members are unable to guarantee exact arrival times due to various factors that may affect scheduling and travel times. To accommodate these considerations, we use time blocks rather than specific times. Client will see this in the dropdown menu when Client selects Arrival Time in the request service form within their Client account.

While Team Members understands that Client may have preferences regarding arrival times, it is essential to acknowledge that Team Members cannot guarantee meeting those specific requests. Flexibility is needed in order for Team Members to accommodate for needs of other Clients on schedule.

SERVICES & PRICING

For the most up-to-date and detailed descriptions on service offerings, please visit our website at www.myhandsnpaws.com.

SERVICE SURCHARGE POLICY

The following service surcharges may apply under certain conditions:

Last Minute Service: A fee of $15 per service will be charged for bookings made with less than 24 hours’ notice.

Holiday Service: A fee of $20 per service will be applied for services provided on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve.

Additional Pets: Base pricing for services includes up to 2 pets. For each additional pet beyond the initial two, an additional fee of $7 per pet will be added.

*Additional fees may apply, as discussed/negotiated between Company and Client. 

SERVICE REQUEST APPROVAL & AVAILABILITY POLICY

Hands N Paws strives to accommodate as many service requests as possible. However, the approval of service requests is subject to the availability of Team Members. Upon submitting a service request, Client will receive a confirmation or declination email/notification indicating whether Hands N Paws can fulfill the requested work. Sometimes, this may take up to 48 hours or more.

If a service request is declined, we encourage Client to explore alternative options or contact our dedicated client support team for further assistance. Company is here to help and find the best solution for all pet care needs.

MEET N GREET POLICY

To ensure a personalized experience for new Clients, Hands N Paws requires a virtual or in-person Meet N Greet before getting started with pet services. These meetings allow us to connect with and onboard Clients and discuss their pet care needs.

All virtual Meet N Greets are free of charge. All in-person Meet N Greets come at a $50 cost. Meet N Greets are no more than 30 minutes in length.

New Clients can book their Meet N Greet on our website at www.myhandsnpaws.com. Existing Clients can book their Meet N Greet in their designated client account in Precise Petcare.

PAYMENT & BILLING POLICY

Payment Method: All services with Hands N Paws are to be paid for using a credit or debit card. All major cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and Discover are acceptable. Client can securely add and store card information within their Client account. Adding and keeping a valid credit card on file is a requirement for requesting any services with Hands N Paws.

Ongoing Services: For services scheduled as ongoing, Client will be automatically charged every Friday for the previous 7 days’ worth of completed, canceled, and in-progress services.

Non-Ongoing Services: For services not scheduled as ongoing, a 50% down-payment will be charged on the day the services are accepted and confirmed. An invoice will be sent immediately. Client has until the date of the last confirmed service to manually pay the remaining balance on the invoice. If manual payment is not made, the remaining total will be automatically charged to the card on file on the date of the last service day on that invoice.

Declined Payments: In the event of a declined auto-charge, Client will be promptly notified. After the first declined charge, Client has a 24-hour grace period to rectify the issue. In the case of a second declined attempt, a late fee of 10% of the invoice total (minimum $10) will be added. Client must be attentive to emails regarding overdue notices.

Payment Terms: Hands N Paws will be paid the agreed-upon amount as discussed, with no exceptions, unless our Cancellation Policy (outlined below) applies and the Client receives a refund in the form of an Account Credit(s). In emergency circumstances, a refund may be issued as transferable credit(s) back to the Client’s card.

Additional Fees: Client may be charged additional fees if Team Members are instructed to, or determine the need to, purchase items for the pet(s) while under the care of Hands N Paws. These items may include pet food or treats, litter or cleaning supplies, transportation to the vet, or emergency expenses for the general care of the pet(s). Hands N Paws and/or Team Member will consult with Client before making any purchases, and will retain and share any receipts as proof of purchase.

SERVICE CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY

When Client schedules services with Hands N Paws, the Company has likely turned down other work so as to devote our time to the work requested from said Client.

Client understands and accepts the Company cancellation/refund policy as outlined below:

– 100% refund is issued as Account Credit if cancellation is made at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled service(s).

– 50% refund is issued as Account Credit if cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled service(s).

– NO refund is issued for same-day cancellations/less than 24 hour notice.

PLEASE NOTE: Refunds are NOT transferable. Should Client be eligible to receive an Account Credit (based on terms above), that will be auto-added to his/her account and applied to the very next invoice with us.

SERVICES TERMS

Hands N Paws agrees to provide the services stated in this contract in a reliable, caring, and trustworthy manner. In consideration of these services and as an express condition thereof, Client expressly waives and relinquishes any and all claims against Hands N Paws arising out of or relating to the provision of services hereunder, except those arising from gross negligence or willful misconduct on part of Hands N Paws.

Client understands and acknowledges that the environment in which they are requesting Hands N Paws to complete services is reasonably sanitary and safe. If it is determined that home conditions are unsanitary and/or unsafe at any point in the working relationship, Company will make it known to Client. Action will be taken accordingly thereafter.

Additionally, Hands N Paws will not terminate during a period of scheduled service unless Hands N Paws determines, at their sole discretion, that a serious danger exists to the health or safety of Team Members or pets. If such concerns preclude Hands N Paws from providing further care for the pets, Client agrees to pay for their pet to be boarded at a boarding facility or taken under the care of another party until Client returns. All attempts will be made to notify Client and/or emergency contacts regarding such situations.

Client understands and acknowledges that he/she is responsible for letting Hands N Paws know of anyone who has access to their home during the duration of services booked. Client releases and holds Hands N Paws harmless of all loss, expense, and damage caused by any third-parties entering Client’s home at that time.

CONTRACT TERMS

This contract will take effect upon digital signature by Client (clicking “Agree & Submit” below) and will remain in effect until terminated by either party. Client may make online reservations for additional services at any time during the terms of this contract, as subject to Hands N Paws availability. All scheduled services will be governed by all the terms of this contract.

Client acknowledges that by signing below, he/she is providing written approval for the provision of services by Hands N Paws during any service period scheduled by Client and confirmed by Hands N Paws. Upon service confirmation, Hands N Paws will be authorized to enter Client premises and perform services without additional signed contracts and/or written authorizations.