Warmer Weather, Pollen Among Possible Problems for Pets This Spring
BOSTON, May 16, 2025 – Angell Animal Medical Centers experts are warning pet owners of possible threats to their beloved companions this spring, including warming temperatures.
“People often think that summer months are the most dangerous for dogs in terms of heat stroke, but we actually see more cases in the early spring,” explained Dr. Kiko Bracker, director of Angell Animal Medical Center’s Emergency and Critical Care Department.
“Owners are excited to get outside when the weather warms up, especially after so much rain, but our dogs haven’t had time to acclimate to warmer temperatures.”
“So, it’s vitally important that owners watch out for signs of heat-related illness as they’re getting outside more,” he cautioned.
Keeping Spring Safe
According to Bracker, owners should take steps to help their dogs acclimate to warmer weather before engaging in any strenuous outdoor activity.
“Start exercising dogs slowly,” he advised. “Increase how long and how far you’re walking slowly over the course of two-to-three weeks, and allow your dog plenty of time to rest.”
“If your dog starts panting heavily or moving much more slowly, it could be experiencing heat stress and needs a break.”
“Also, and this should go without saying, don’t leave your dog in the car, even if the windows are cracked,” Bracker added, noting that the inside of a car can jump to more than 100 degrees on a warm day in 10 minutes or less.
April Showers Bring May Sneezes
Warm weather is not the only thing that may be causing our pets discomfort this spring, according to Dr. Meagan Painter of MSPCA-Angell West’s Dermatology team.
“While many people are dealing with issues related to pollen allergies in spring—stuffy noses, itchy eyes—they may not realize that their pets could be experiencing adverse effects too,” she said.
According to Painter, if your dog is licking their paws, scratching their body, developing ear infections, or showing the same sniffle symptoms that you are—they could be suffering from allergies.
“Sometimes allergies can also affect dogs’ digestive systems,” she elaborated. “Many of my patients have issues with diarrhea or anal gland problems as a result of their allergies.”
Help Your Pets!
Bracker and Painter agree that the best thing pet owners can do this spring is check in with their veterinarians.
“A visit with your veterinarian can help determine if your pet has spring allergies, and also whether it might have some kind of heart or respiratory issue that could be exacerbated by the warmer temperatures,” said Painter. “And, of course, there are specialists who can help if these initial appointments reveal bigger issues.”
“If you’re not able to get an appointment with your veterinarian and have something you need help with more quickly, we also have Urgent Care appointments at Angell West,” she added.
More information on Angell West Urgent Care may be found at mspca.org/urgentcare.
