Out door pets need more attention than indoor pets, when it comes to caring for their coats. Spring is usually wet in most parts of the country, add exercise and you have muddy paws and matted fur so it calls for an extra bathing from time to time.

Spring is a time of excitement for most pets. Winter offers less sights and sounds and when the spring arrives, expect your pet to react. You may find your feline is away longer and canines don't like coming in anymore.

Some tips to remember when bathing pet's. Their coat is balanced by nature and too much bathing can cause skin problems, here are some helpful hints;

• You do not have to use shampoo every time, sometimes a rinse is enough
• Do not use flea shampoos unless it is necessary
• Rinse thoroughly, Left over shampoo can cause skin problems
• Switch shampoos if your pet develops skin problems

The excitement of spring leads to many pets finding a way to escape. The extra sights and sounds is sometimes too much for a pet with spring fever! Some safe pet tips;

• Fences - Take a walk around your yard and check for winter damage
• Doors expand and contract during the winter - check to be sure they close tightly
• Prevention is the key to the lost and stolen pet problem.
• Remind guests to watch for the pets when entering the house or yard.
• Remind children to remember to close the doors and gates and to watch for pets sneak out.
• Because of all the extra pets wondering the neighborhood, remind your Children to be careful of stray pets.

Extra exercise is a big help to keep the pet calm in the home. Cats that watch outside all day will appreciate a walk on a leash and dogs would love a good walk around the neighborhood. Take advantage of play toys that give the pet a good workout.

Always remember that when you are out with your pet to be courteous to others. Do not let your dog approach others and never let your cat run free so a neighbor will come out to find paw prints on their new car, And of course, spay or neuter.