March 2026 

A Note from Dr. Wallace

March always feels like a fresh start.

We celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, the days get a little longer, the weather begins to warm up, and many of our families are planning spring break trips. It’s a season of renewal — and here at Catawba Heights Animal Hospital, it’s also the time we begin talking about protecting your pets as they head into the most active months of the year.

As you’re making travel plans or spending more time outdoors with your pets, this is the perfect time to think ahead about prevention, protection, and wellness.

If you’re traveling for spring break, now is the time to book boarding at Claws & Paws Inn. Spaces fill quickly during school breaks, and we want to make sure your pet has a safe, comfortable stay with us while you’re away.

Now let’s talk about what spring means medically for your pets…

Spring Into Parasite Prevention

As temperatures rise, parasites wake up.

In North Carolina, heartworms are a year-round risk, and ticks and fleas begin to surge as early as March. Even indoor pets are not immune as mosquitoes and fleas find their way inside.

Spring is the time we:

  • Perform annual heartworm testing
  • Review flea/tick prevention
  • Update preventatives before peak season
  • Discuss Lyme risk in our area

Prevention is always safer, and far less expensive, than treatment.

Leptospirosis Update: Why We Now Consider It Core

You may notice we’re recommending the Leptospirosis vaccine more consistently — and for good reason.

Lepto is spread through wildlife urine in:

  • Puddles
  • Wet grass 
  • Lakes and creeks
  • Even your own backyard

It only takes a quick drink from a contaminated water source.

Leptospirosis can cause kidney and liver failure and is zoonotic, meaning it can spread to people. Because of the risk here in North Carolina, we now consider Leptospirosis a core vaccine for dogs.

If your dog has not received it before, they will need an initial vaccine and booster. Our team is happy to walk you through the schedule.

Allergy Season Is Starting

If your pet starts:

  • Licking their paws
  • Scratching more than usual
  • Getting ear infections
  • Scooting or chewing at their skin

…it may be early seasonal allergies.

Starting treatment early prevents infections and chronic flare-ups later in the summer. We have safe and effective options to keep your pet comfortable all season long.

Spring Break & Boarding Reminders

If you’re traveling for spring break:

  • Book boarding early — space is limited
  • Make sure vaccines are current
  • Refill medications before departure
  • Schedule any needed exams ahead of time

Our Claws & Paws Inn team provides a safe, supervised, and loving environment so you can travel with peace of mind.

Call us to schedule your spring wellness visit or reserve boarding today.