Introduction
Living in Colorado Springs means we see four full seasons. We watch snow melt off Pikes Peak. Summer wildflowers appear. We feel the crisp dry air of a perfect fall day. But each beautiful season brings unique risks for our pets.
As a pet owner here knowing these local hazards is your best defense. This is not about fear. This is about being ready. Let us walk through the year. We will highlight key dangers to watch for. Then you and your pet can enjoy the Rockies safely.
Spring and Summer The Season of Sunshine and Hidden Dangers
Days get longer. We go outdoors. These are the main threats to your pet.
The Unassuming Menace Foxtails and Cheatgrass
These grassy weeds dry out. They develop sharp arrow shaped seeds. These seeds burrow into dog skin. They go between toes inside ears up the nose under eyelids.
Prevention
After every walk check your dog. Check paws ears and coat. Feel between their toes. Look inside their ears. Do this especially in open spaces like Ute Valley Park or Palmer Park.
Signs of Trouble
Sudden violent sneezing. Pawing at an ear. Shaking the head. A swollen limping paw. If you think it is a foxtail see your vet. Don’t wait. Foxtails can move inward and cause bad infection.
The Silent Killer Heatstroke
Our high altitude is tricky. Cool mornings become hot afternoons. A car becomes a furnace fast. Hot pavement burns paw pads.
Prevention
Never leave your pet in a parked car. Walk your dog early morning or late evening. Do the five second pavement test. Put the back of your hand on the asphalt. If you cannot hold it for five seconds it is too hot for dog paws.
Signs of Heatstroke
Heavy panting. Glazed eyes. Fast heartbeat. Troubled breathing. Dizziness. Lethargy. This is a medical emergency. Get to a vet right away.
The Toxic Bloom Blue Green Algae
This is less common here than in wet states. But stagnant ponds can grow toxic algae. This happens in late summer.
Prevention
Do not let your dog drink from scummy water. Do not let them swim in it.
Signs of Poisoning
Signs can start in minutes. Vomiting. Diarrhea. Seizures. Troubled breathing. This is fast and fatal. Seek emergency vet care without delay.
Fall and Winter Navigating the Cold and Chemicals
Air turns crisp. New challenges come for Colorado Springs pets.
The Sweet Tasting Poison Antifreeze
We winterize our cars. Antifreeze leaks become common. It has a sweet taste like animals. It is very toxic.
Prevention
Check your driveway and street. Look for pink or green puddles. Switch to pet safe antifreeze if you can.
Signs of Poisoning
Drunken behavior. Vomiting. Too much thirst. Seizures. Antifreeze poisoning is a race against time. If you think your pet drank something get to an emergency vet immediately.
The Hidden Ice Melt Irritant
Salt and ice melts hurt paw pads. They cause chemical burns. They are toxic if licked.
Prevention
Wipe your dog’s paws and belly with a damp towel after coming inside. Look for pet safe ice melt at the hardware store. Use it on your property. Think about dog booties. They protect against chemicals and cold.
Consider Dog Booties
They are the most effective barrier against both ice-melt chemicals and the cold.
The Winter Dehydrator Cold Dry Air
Our winter air has low humidity. It can dehydrate pets like summer heat.
Prevention
Make sure your pet has fresh water all the time. They may drink less cold water. Add a bit of warm water to their bowl to help.
Year Round in the Pikes Peak Region Altitude and Sun
We live over six thousand feet high. This brings its own things to consider.
High Altitude
Dogs can struggle with thin air. This is especially true for new dogs or short nosed breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs. Build their exercise slowly. Watch for too much panting or weakness.
Strong Sun
Yes dogs can get sunburned. This is true for dogs with short light coats or pink noses. Talk to your vet about pet safe sunscreen for noses and ear tips.
Conclusion Your Local Vet is Your Best Ally
The best thing you can do is have a good local veterinarian. They know the specific risks here. They can give tailored advice. They can handle a foxtail emergency.
Be watchful. Be prepared. Then go enjoy our three hundred days of Colorado sunshine with your best friend.
Do You Have a Vet You Trust?
Find a Here Colorado Springs Veterinary Clinics
Mazahir Ali
Founder, Colorado Springs Veterinary Directory Hi, I’m Mazahir Ali, the founder of Colorado Springs Veterinary Directory. Based in Karachi, Pakistan, I launched this free resource in 2025 to help pet owners in Colorado Springs find trusted local services like veterinary clinics, boarding, grooming and more. As a passionate pet lover and online business builder, I focus on curating verified listings and helpful guides for neighborhoods like Briargate, Black Forest and Fountain. While I’m not a veterinary professional, I rely on community feedback and reliable sources to keep the directory accurate and useful. Questions? Reach out at Ma@coloradospringsveterinary.com or through our contact page. Follow for more pet tips!
