Through rain, snow, sleet or 90-degree temperatures, something
else is delivered to our homes as regularly as the mail:
seasonal health hazards that affect the family dog. Depending
upon the time of year, your dog is likely to suffer from certain
medical problems. The winter months bring exposure to the cold
weather, dangerous plants -- like poinsettias -- and potentially
hazardous foods, such as chocolate. On the other hand, from late
spring through early fall, fleas, ticks and other parasites
attack. Here's how you can make sure your mental calendar is on
the alert for your pup's seasonal health issues: Avoid long-term
exposure to the elements Dogs left in freezing temperatures for
too long can develop frostbite in their ears and paws. How much
exposure they can take depends on the breed -- hairless or small
dogs can succumb to cold weather in minutes, while a thick-coat
breed may be able to sleep in the snow, Peterson says. You can
help by trimming the fur around your dog's pads so that ice and
snow won't