Spring is fast Approaching...

I, Dr. Rivera, moved to Utah about 2 1/2 years ago, not knowing what
 to expect of this Utah weather.  I have, for the first time, experienced
four distinct seasons of the year.  The Summers are very hot in Utah.
The Fall season is very pleasant and full of changing colors.  Winter is
a beast.  Never had I needed such great adjustment as I did facing my
first Utah Winter.  Now, Spring is fast approaching with vibrant colors,
new vegetation, longer days, and there are some adjustments to make.
I plan on snowboarding as long as I possibly can, but will also begin
fishing many days of the month.
What about our pets?  How will they change to changing seasons?
How will we make adjustments to cope with our pets' changes?

Here are three things I see most often in the Spring:

1) Pets will shed their heavy, warm, thick coats as the days become
longer.  One of the most common questions I'm asked is why?  Just
like we put away our winter coats in the closet as the days become
warmer, so do our furry friends, slowly shed their covering as it is no
longer needed.  If we let it be, they will take their sweet time in
shedding, and you may notice that on your carpet and furniture.  I
highly recommend appropriate grooming and brushing frequently.
A good vacuum may also be a good idea.

2) 'Tis the season of love.  This is Nature's call for animals to multiply
and flourish the Earth!  Birds are singing and courting, fish are
spawning, and sexually intact tom-cats and dogs are looking to get a
piece of the action.  We see countless litters of abandoned, feral kittens
and puppies at the Humane Society and shelters around the United
States each Spring.  These are largely a result of pets, or former pets,
not being sterilized.  Please join other responsible owners in spaying
and neutering your cats and dogs.  I always tell my clients, "it's
cheaper to spay or neuter your pet now, than to pay for veterinary
care for all their offspring later."

3) We are coming into a season of joy, festivities, outdoor activities
and many treats.  All these things provide potential dangers and toxins
for our pets.  This season brings about an increase in automobile care,
and may increase the chance of antifreeze toxicity in dogs and cats.
Easter will bring much candy and chocolate eggs and bunnies to our
children, but our cats and dogs should not partake.  Chocolate is one
of the most common pet toxicities we face.  Also, many new and
flourishing plants and flowers may be most toxic in their infancy.

Make the appropriate changes to enjoy this Spring!!