Spring Reset: The Quick Check Every Australian Pet Parent Should Know

Spring in Australia means longer walks, more time outside and a lot more sniffing through grass. It also makes a simple post-walk check worth adding to your routine.

Start with the paws. Grass seeds can work their way between toes and through the skin, particularly in long-haired dogs. They can also become lodged in ears, noses and coats. Agriculture Victoria recommends paying particular attention to paws during spring and summer and seeking veterinary help if you notice persistent sneezing, head shaking, irritation or limping.

Then run your hands through the coat, around the ears, neck and collar area. For pet owners along Australia's eastern seaboard, paralysis ticks are another important consideration. RSPCA Australia notes that paralysis ticks are generally found from North Queensland down towards Victoria, with risk varying by area and season. In higher-risk locations, daily coat checks alongside vet-recommended prevention are important.

And as the days get warmer, rethink when you walk. Hot pavement, concrete and sand can become uncomfortable or unsafe for paws, while exercising in high heat increases the risk of heat stress. RSPCA Australia recommends choosing cooler parts of the day and always providing access to clean, fresh water.

The good news? A spring pet-care routine doesn't need to become complicated. After an outdoor adventure, make it a habit to check:

Paws → coat → ears → skin → hydration.

It takes a couple of minutes and gives you a chance to notice small changes before they become bigger problems.

At PetsnKlaws, we're big believers in smarter pet care: small habits, useful tools and products that make looking after them a little easier.