Every season in New York City brings its own unique magic—and its own unique set of risks for our pets. As your local veterinarians at [Your Vet Clinic Name], we see seasonal trends in emergencies and want to help you prevent them. Here’s a breakdown of what to watch out for all year round.
Spring:
- Toxic Blooms: As flowers bloom, be aware that many common plants are highly toxic. Lilies are extremely dangerous for cats, causing acute kidney failure even from just pollen ingestion. Azaleas, rhododendrons, and tulip bulbs are also poisonous to dogs and cats.
- Rat & Mouse Poison (Rodenticides): Spring often brings increased pest control efforts. These poisons are designed to be enticing and are lethal to pets. Be vigilant on walks and know the signs of poisoning (lethargy, difficulty breathing, bleeding).
Summer:
- Heatstroke: This is a medical emergency. With humidity and hot pavement, dogs can overheat incredibly quickly. Never, ever leave a pet in a car, even for a minute. Stick to cooler walk times, provide plenty of water, and watch for excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy.
- Parasites: Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes thrive in the summer heat. These pests aren’t just itchy; they transmit serious diseases like Lyme disease, heartworm, and anaplasmosis. Ensure your pet is on a vet-recommended, year-round preventive regimen.
Fall:
- Mushrooms: Moist, cool weather brings mushrooms sprouting in parks and even tree pits. It’s impossible for the average person to distinguish toxic from non-toxic varieties. The safest rule is to not let your pet sniff or eat any mushrooms.
- Antifreeze Leaks: As people winterize their cars, antifreeze (ethylene glycol) leaks become more common. It has a sweet taste that attracts animals but is extremely toxic, causing fatal kidney failure. Clean up any puddles near your car and be watchful on walks.
Winter:
- Antifreeze (Again): The threat continues into the winter months. Stay vigilant.
- Rock Salt & Chemical Ice Melts: As mentioned in our urban safety guide, these are a major winter hazard for paw pads and digestive systems. Wipe those paws!
- Cold Weather Aches: Arthritis can flare up in cold, damp weather. If your senior pet seems stiff or reluctant to go on walks, talk to us about management options.
The best defense against seasonal hazards is awareness and prevention. If you ever suspect your pet has ingested something toxic or is suffering from heatstroke or cold, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Your team at [Your Vet Clinic Name] is here to help you navigate every season safely.