A vet has issued a warning about five health risks dog owners should be aware of this spring.
Longer walks and afternoons in the garden are just two of spring’s many perks, but experts are warning dog owners that the change in season brings a set of significant health risks for your pooch.
While the return of warmer weather is a welcome relief, it also marks the arrival of seasonal hazards that catch many pet owners off guard.
From burrowing grass seeds to toxic garden bulbs, Dr Charlotte Inness, senior veterinary surgeon and founder of VetMedi.co.uk, says that as gardens begin to bloom, so do the risks to our four-legged friends.
“Beyond the fresh blooms and rising temperatures lie significant threats, some of which can prove fatal,” warns Dr Inness. To keep your dog safe this season, she recommends keeping a sharp eye out for these five common spring dangers that often go unnoticed.
Grass seeds
They may look harmless swaying in the breeze, but dried grass seeds are a serious seasonal hazard for dogs. These tiny, dart-shaped seeds are common on wild grasses in fields, parks, and even along roadside verges.
“As more people encourage biodiversity by letting gardens and meadows grow wild, grass seed injuries are becoming a problem we see much more frequently,” says Dr Inness.
Designed by nature to burrow into the soil, these seeds have a sharp, pointed structure that allows them to easily hook into fur and pierce a dog’s skin. The most common entry points are between the toes, in the ears, under the armpits, and around the groin, but they can also enter in the eyes.
“Once a seed embeds itself, it acts like a one-way drill, migrating deeper into the body,” explains Dr Inness. “This causes intense pain, swelling, and infection. Because grass seeds are organic matter, they are often invisible on standard X-rays, meaning we sometimes require advanced CT or MRI scans to locate them. If they enter the eye, they can cause blindness, and in severe cases, they have even been known to migrate into internal organs like the lungs.”
Insect stings
Spring marks a peak in insect activity as bees forage and wasps emerge from hibernation. Unlike docile bees, wasps can sting multiple times and release pheromones that signal the colony to swarm. Because dogs explore with their mouths, they are particularly vulnerable to stings.
"Preventing stings primarily involves managing your pet's environment," explains vet Dr Charlotte Inness. "On walks, avoid letting pets sniff deep into bushes or leaf piles where insects may nest. In the garden, removing sweet-smelling flowers can reduce traffic, and I recommend avoiding outdoor play during the midday heat when activity is highest."
While most stings cause only mild irritation, some cases are critical. "Stings to the mouth, tongue, or throat are emergencies, as swelling can block the airway," warns Dr Inness. "Smaller dogs are also at higher risk of severe reactions to multiple stings. Above all, a strong 'recall' command is the best way to pull your dog away from danger before they get too close."
Spring bulbs
While the first blooms of spring are a welcome sight, many common garden flowers pose a severe toxic risk to dogs. These toxins are most concentrated in the bulbs, making them a hidden hazard for dogs that love to dig.
“Flowers such as daffodils and tulips are particularly problematic,” says senior veterinary surgeon Dr Charlotte Inness. “The bulbs are the most toxic part of the plant; a curious dog can ingest a concentrated dose of toxins in seconds.”
Dr Inness advises owners to be especially vigilant around these varieties:
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Daffodils & Tulips: Can trigger severe vomiting, drooling, and heart disturbances
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Lilies: Certain types, like Lily of the Valley, are heart-toxic to dogs
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Hyacinths: Ingestion can lead to tremors and bloody diarrhoea
If you suspect your dog has eaten any part of a spring bulb, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. “Contact your vet immediately,” Dr Inness warns. “If possible, take a photo of the plant or bring a sample to the clinic to help us identify the toxin quickly.”
Fertilisers and weedkillers
Spring is prime gardening time, but a "green thumb" can lead to serious trouble for pets. Many gardeners use bone meal, blood meal, or fish emulsion to prep their soil - products that are highly enticing to dogs due to their scent.
“If a dog decides to feast on these products, it can lead to 'fertiliser toxicosis' or even physical gastrointestinal obstructions,” says Dr Inness. “Iron-rich moss killers are also a major concern. Always ensure your pet is kept away from treated areas until they are completely dry, and store all garden chemicals in a secure, dog-proof container.”
Parasites (Fleas, Ticks, and Lungworm)
As the ground warms up, parasite populations explode. Ticks, often found in long grass, can transmit Lyme disease, while fleas quickly become a household infestation. However, the spring dampness also brings out slugs and snails, which pose a more "hidden" threat: Lungworm.
“Dogs can contract lungworm simply by sniffing or licking the slime trails of infected slugs and snails, or by accidentally eating them while playing with outdoor toys,” warns Dr Inness. “Unlike many common parasites, lungworm can be fatal if not caught early. Spring is the perfect time to speak with your vet to ensure your pet's preventative treatments are up to date and cover the specific risks in your area.”
