Spring into Summer with your Furry Friend

The Montgomery County Veterinary Medical Association has designated March as Pet Health Month, but you don’t have to be in North Carolina to take steps to improve pet health this month. As we move into Spring (finally, right?), there are a couple of things we should all be aware of for our dogs.

With the weather beginning to turn and gardening season upon us, our dogs won’t be the only ones digging in the backyard (how do we convince them to stop doing that, anyway?). My husband and I are gardening for the first time in our new backyard and, I have to say, after seeing this article, we’ll be reading the labels on all garden products we bring into our yard. Here are some great tips for creating a dog-friendly garden, as well as a great list of plants that are safe for cats and dogs (while we’re at it, here’s a list of plants to keep your dog away from). Also, we’ve all heard about catnip, but did you know there are grasses you can plant for your dog? Mother Earth’s Garden suggests planting dog grass or vanilla grass (also known as sweet vernal grass) to please your poochie’s palate.

Spring is also a great time to assess your dog’s health and take steps to keep Fido feeling fancy-free throughout what will surely be an exciting and action-packed summer. Now’s the time to make sure you’re on top of your dog’s heartworm and flea prevention programs. Your local vet can help you get–and stay–on track with the right preventive maintenance program for your dog. Furthermore, with all the romping and playing your pup will want to do this summer, Jennifer Roland’s “Spring Cleaning for Your Pooch” recommends checking out a glucosamine supplement to help prevent joint pain and other issues. The right glucosamine & chondroitin supplement can increase cartilage elasticity while rejuvenating aging dogs or those suffering from arthritis. With the support of a great supplement, our dogs’ only concern will be whether we can keep up with them!

We’re looking forward to a great summer at i Love Dogs, and we know you are, too. With all of the dog-friendly parks, beaches, and other destinations to visit, and a happy, healthy dog by our side, the coming months are sure to inspire tons of great memories for the years to come.

• Do you have any special plans for the summer?
• What are your favorite things to do with your furry friend?
• What is your spring routine for your dog?
• Post your ideas here, and check back to see what others are saying!