Preparing Your Dog for Spring: Allergies, Pollen & Yard Safety

As the weather warms up and the flowers start to bloom, many of us look forward to longer days outside with our furry friends. But spring can also bring unique challenges for pet owners—pollen allergies, new yard hazards, and more time outdoors that can put your dog at risk if you’re not prepared. At Superior Dog Fence, we believe a safe, happy dog makes for a happy owner. Here’s how to make sure your pet enjoys spring while staying healthy and secure.

1. Watch Out for Seasonal Allergies

Just like people, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies. Pollen, mold, and grass can trigger symptoms such as:

• Excessive scratching or licking
• Watery eyes and sneezing
• Red, inflamed skin or ear infections

What you can do:

• Wipe your dog’s paws and coat after time outside to remove pollen.
• Keep bedding and favorite resting spots clean by washing them frequently.
• Talk to your vet about allergy medications or supplements if symptoms worsen.

2. Keep Your Yard Pet-Safe

Spring means your lawn and garden are coming back to life—but some plants and chemicals can be dangerous for dogs.

Common hazards include:

• Fertilizers, pesticides, and weed killers
• Toxic plants like azaleas, lilies, and daffodils
• Standing water, which can harbor bacteria or parasites

Safety tips:

• Store all chemicals out of reach and follow pet-safe application guidelines.
• Remove any toxic plants or place barriers around them.
• Check your yard for sharp sticks, loose trash, or other debris that popped up over winter.

3. Ensure Your Dog Stays Secure in the Yard

With more time outside, it’s essential that your dog has a safe space to play. If your pet containment system wasn’t used much over the winter, spring is the perfect time for a quick check-up.

Spring fence checklist:

• Test your underground fence to ensure it’s working properly.
• Inspect the collar battery and replace or recharge it if needed.
• Walk the boundary with your dog as a refresher on training and flags.

If you notice any breaks, dead zones, or issues with your current system, Superior Dog Fence can help repair or service all brands of underground dog fences. We also install new systems with rechargeable collars and user-friendly equipment to give you peace of mind year-round.

4. Make Hydration and Shade a Priority

Warmer spring days can sneak up on you. Always ensure your dog has:

• Plenty of fresh water
• Access to shaded areas when outdoors
• Breaks from intense play to avoid overheating

5. Schedule a Spring Vet Check

Spring is an ideal time to check your pet’s overall health. Ask your vet about:

• Heartworm and flea/tick prevention
• Vaccines and booster shots
• Any skin or allergy treatments

Final Thoughts: A Safe Spring Means a Happy Dog

Spring is one of the best times of year to enjoy your yard and make memories with your pup. By taking a few extra precautions—managing allergies, clearing hazards, and making sure your fence system is working perfectly—you can give your dog the freedom they love while keeping them safe.

If you’d like us to inspect, repair, or install an underground dog fence this spring, contact Superior Dog Fence today. We’re proud to be locally owned and operated, offering personalized service for families and their pets throughout the Richmond area.