On Monday, February 20, 2017, we had a great 4H group tour our hospital. It was wonderful to have them here, and we hope they had just as much fun as we did!

If you know of a group which would enjoy a tour of our hospital call us at 719-481-3080 and ask to speak with Stefanie.

Soon it will be springtime in Colorado! With the warmer weather comes spending more time outdoors and warm weather activities. Here are some ways to keep your companion safe this time of year.

Exercise

Now is the time of year when we want to do more of our exercise outdoors rather than at the gym. If you are a runner or even love taking walks around the block, you may want to start taking your companion along with you. If you or your furry friend have been “taking a few months off” from regular exercise, you need to ease your companions back into a regular routine. Start slowly at first, and gradually increase exercise time, as well as the degree of difficulty.

Around the House

If you love to open all the windows in your home make sure they all have screens which are secure. Our companions may get curious about an open window and may escape or fall out if a screen is not properly set.

If you have a garden or are planning on planting one this year, make sure the plants you choose are safe for your companion. Click here for a full list of toxic and non-toxic plants.

Any cleaners or chemicals for annual spring cleaning must always be placed out of your companion’s reach. Even all natural cleaners can be harmful. Always follow label directions and keep anything which may potentially be harmful somewhere inaccessible to companions or children. Never allow animals to lick cleaners off of surfaces, and always thoroughly rinse away all cleaners.

We always advise giving Flea and Tick and Heartworm Prevention all year round. If you did not give these medications in the winter months, now is the time to start giving them again. With the warmer weather fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes will be out in full force. You may think you do not need to give your furry friend these medications because she does not go outside often or only stays in your yard. The reality is that your companion is always at risk even if they stay inside 100% of the time. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can always find their way into your home, and therefore onto your companion.

Call us to make sure your companion is up to date on their exam, vaccines, and all annual testing. We can discuss with you more ways to keep your furry friend happy and healthy this time of year, as well as provide your companion with any heartworm or flea/tick prevention needed.