🌸Spring Dog Walks in and around Copthorne West Sussex - What Every Owner Should Know 🌸

Enjoying a spring dog walk in Worth, West Sussex. 🌿🐾

March always feels like a turning point for dog walkers. The days start getting a bit longer, the weather slowly improves, and it’s such a lovely time to be out walking with the dogs again.

After the darker winter months, many dogs seem to have a bit of extra energy, and spring walks are a great way for them to explore, sniff, and enjoy the outdoors.

While spring is a wonderful time to be outside, there are a few seasonal things I always keep an eye on when I’m out walking in Sussex.

🪻Spring Flowers and Curious Dogs

Spring brings lots of beautiful flowers and fresh growth, but some common plants can be toxic to dogs if eaten. This is especially important to keep in mind if your dog likes to sniff, dig, or nibble plants while out on walks or in the garden.

Some spring plants to be aware of include Daffodil, Tulip, and Hyacinth. The bulbs of these plants are the most toxic part and can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and drooling if ingested.

You may also spot Lily of the Valley or Foxglove in woodland areas and gardens. These plants are more serious and can affect the heart if eaten, so it’s best to keep dogs from investigating them too closely.

Most dogs will ignore these plants, but it’s always a good idea to keep a watchful eye, especially during spring when everything is starting to grow again.

If you ever think your dog may have eaten something they shouldn’t, contact your vet for advice as soon as possible.

🐑Lambing Season in Sussex Countryside

Spring also means lambing season in many rural areas. Farmers work incredibly hard caring for their sheep and newborn lambs.

Whenever I’m walking near fields with livestock, I make sure dogs are kept under close control and on a lead if needed. Even friendly dogs can accidentally frighten sheep if they run too close.

It’s also worth remembering that under UK law, farmers are allowed to take action if a dog is worrying livestock. Keeping dogs under control around farm animals helps protect the sheep, supports local farmers, and keeps our dogs safe too.

🐾Muddy Paws and Tick Safety

Early spring walks can still mean muddy paws, especially after the wet winter we’ve had so far. I always carry a Mud Daddy portable paw cleaner with me. It’s perfect for quickly rinsing muddy paws at the end of our walk, which helps prevent dogs from licking mud off their paws that may carry bacteria or parasites.

As the weather warms up, ticks become more active, especially in grassy and wooded areas. I always carry a tick remover as part of my dog walking first aid kit, which is with me on every walk. If I spot a tick while we’re out, I can remove it quickly and safely.

And finally, it’s always a good idea to make sure your dogs are up to date with their vaccinations and parasite protection, helping keep them happy, healthy, and safe on their adventures.

🌞Enjoying Spring Walks in Sussex

Spring really is such a lovely time to be outdoors with dogs. The fresh air, new smells, and longer days make walks even more enjoyable. Sussex is full of beautiful spots for walks, from woodland paths to open fields, and it’s always rewarding to see dogs exploring happily.

If your dog would enjoy some extra walks during the week while you’re busy, I’m always happy to help. Regular walks keep dogs happy, healthy, and well exercised - and it’s something I genuinely love being part of.

Elle 💗