Spring into Safety: Protecting Your Pup with Smart Prep and Seasonal Awareness

After months of short walks and lots of indoor time, spring is finally here—and your dog knows it. The days are getting longer, there are new smells to explore, and the warmer weather is inviting us all to get back outside. The shift from winter to spring is exciting for all of us, but it also comes with some hidden risks and seasonal transitions that are easy to overlook in all the excitement.

Here’s what to keep in mind to make sure your dog stays safe, healthy, and ready to enjoy the best of the season this year.

1. Check Your Dog’s Gear Before You Head Out

Spring is a great time to reassess the condition and fit of your dog’s gear. Winter walks can be hard on leashes, collars, and harnesses and for some, it also means some excess pounds have been added. Before you head to the trail or park, give everything a quick once-over. Inspect for fraying, rusted clips, or fasteners that are worn out. Make sure harnesses still fit correctly—yep, winter weight is a thing with dogs, too—and a poorly fitting harness can lead to chafing and discomfort.

It’s also a good idea to check your dog’s ID tags and microchip info. Make sure your contact number is current and legible. If your dog ever bolts after a rabbit or slips their collar mid-walk, up-to-date ID gives you the best chance of getting them back home quickly. And because spring brings longer evenings, it also means later and, potentially, darker walks. Consider reflective gear for both you and your pup or, at the very least, a light-up collar to keep your dog visible.

2. Be Aware of Seasonal Hazards

Longer days equate to more time outdoors—which is where the fun happens but also where certain dangers lurk. Let’s start with the obvious: standing water. Puddles may look harmless (and even downright inviting to your dog), but they can harbor bacteria like Leptospira, which can cause leptospirosis—a potentially serious infection for both dogs and people. Though puddles may look tempting on warm days, it’s best to steer clear of them. Be sure to bring your own water so your dog has a safe hydration source on outdoor adventures.

Pollen and seasonal allergies often ramp up in the spring—and pets can be just as affected as people. If your dog is scratching more than usual, sneezing, or experiencing skin irritation, it might be more than just lingering winter dryness. Spring allergies are very real for pets and addressing them early can make a big difference in comfort and health.

There are several natural supplements that can help reduce allergic responses by supporting a balanced immune system. Ingredients like quercetin, stinging nettle, and bromelain have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and antihistamine-like properties. ^1,2 Your local independent pet store can be a great resource for finding high-quality, natural allergy support options and getting guidance on what might work best for your pet.

Then there’s the dreaded return of ticks and fleas. As temperatures rise, so does pest activity. These parasites don’t just cause discomfort—they can transmit Lyme disease, Ehrlichia, and other tick-borne illnesses. Make sure your dog is protected with a vet-recommended flea and tick preventative. Or, if you’re like me and are looking to avoid chemical options, a high-quality natural repellent can be a great alternative. Look for formulas made with essential oils like cedarwood, geranium and/or neem that are safe for pets but off-putting to insects. They may need to be reapplied more often than conventional products, but they offer protection without exposing your dog to synthetic chemicals.

Another quick tip that I swear by: carry a lint roller in your car or place it by the door. Running it over your dog after a walk—especially if you've been in tall grass or wooded areas—can help catch rogue ticks before they burrow in. It’s simple, fast, and extremely effective (and don’t forget to run it over your own clothes, too!)

3. Ease Back into Activity

Even the most active dog tends to slow down a bit in winter, whether it’s because of icy sidewalks, snowy trodden trails or bitter wind. This means your dog’s fitness level might not be quite where it was last fall. If you jump into high-impact activities too quickly—such as a long, fast trail hike or an extended fetch session—you may see signs of soreness or even injury, especially in older dogs or those with joint sensitivities. Instead, start with shorter walks and build back up gradually. Let your dog’s endurance and muscle strength come back naturally.

4. Get Ahead of Social Situations

With more people heading outside, you’ll likely encounter more dogs and more distractions. Whether it’s at the park, on the trail, or just around the neighborhood, spring is peak “pop-up dog encounter” season. That’s why leash manners and recall training are worth brushing up on. Even friendly dogs can become overstimulated in new environments—or after a prolonged period of not being exposed to other dogs (such as winter!)

Keep an eye on your dog’s body language. Panting, pacing, stiff posture, or lip-licking can be signs of discomfort, stress or overload. ³ If your dog’s not into crowds or unpredictable dog park dynamics, that’s okay. Choose quieter routes or go at off-peak hours.

Before heading into a season full of outdoor socializing, it’s also a good idea to ensure your dog is protected against common illnesses like kennel cough or canine influenza. A titer test can help determine whether your dog still has immunity from previous vaccinations, allowing you to avoid unnecessary boosters while still keeping them safe in shared spaces with lots of new dogs. ⁴

5. Grooming Habits

As the weather warms, many dogs start blowing their winter coats. Regular brushing can reduce matting, overheating, and itchy skin. It’s also a great opportunity to check for lumps, ticks, or anything unusual on their skin. Trim paw fur to help with mud cleanup and reduce the risk of buildup between pads.

Spring offers a fresh start—not just for us but for our dogs, too. It’s a season of renewed energy and exploration but also a time to be intentional. With a little preparation and awareness, you can give your dog the freedom to enjoy everything Spring has to offer while minimizing the risks that come with it. Here's to longer walks, greener trails, and a healthy, happy season ahead, enjoy!

Johnna Devereaux is a Clinical Pet Nutritionist, canine wellness expert and Chief Nutrition Officer for Bow Wow Labs.

* This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon or perceived as specific medical or veterinary advice.

**The points of view expressed above are those of our clinical nutritionist and are supported by science, her education and experience. We are committed to providing the best, most straightforward, and most helpful information possible to help keep your dog happy, healthy and safe.

References:

1. Mlcek J, Jurikova T, Skrovankova S, Sochor J. Quercetin and Its Anti-Allergic Immune Response. Molecules. 2016;21(5):623. doi:10.3390/molecules21050623

2. Nettle Extract (Urtica dioica) Affects Key Receptors and Enzymes Associated with Allergic Rhinitis | Request PDF. ResearchGate. Published online October 22, 2024. doi:10.1002/ptr.2763

3. Gibeault S, MSc, Jun 22 CU, Jun 22 2023 | 5 Minutes Updated:, Minutes 2023 | 5. Understanding Dog Body Language: Decipher Dogs’ Signs & Signals. American Kennel Club. Accessed April 7, 2025. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/how-to-read-dog-body-language/

4. To titer or to revaccinate | American Veterinary Medical Association. Accessed April 7, 2025. https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2016-07-01/titer-or-revaccinate