As the bright hues of summer start to fade, we make way for the crisp browns and oranges that coat our streets, announcing the arrival of Autumn. As with any change in season, it’s our cue to adapt our care routines to ensure we keep our furry friends safe in these times of change. From hazardous plants to the dangers of the dark, read this comprehensive guide to keep your dog safe and happy this season!
Can I eat that?
The golden coat of leaves isn’t the only sign that Autumn is here; fallen conkers, acorns, novel critters and plants dotting the ground are added indicators of the change in season. This novelty could be exciting for your dog, meaning it’s even more important to read up on what is and isn’t safe.
Top tip: It’s always best practice not to let your dog eat random things they might spot on their walk!
Snails & slugs: The risk of lungworm
As Autumn arrives, slugs and snails start to pop up more, and your curious pup might notice them during walks. Dogs can contract lungworm by eating these creatures, or even by ingesting contents coated in their slime, which can also lead to serious illness.
Ensure you discourage your dog from eating things outdoors, and regularly clean toys and bowls to alleviate the risk of contraction.
Worried your dog has come into contact with lungworm? Check out our Combined Worm Count Kit.
Muddy walks: Avoid ticks and fleas
Your dog is at greater risk of contracting fleas or ticks after walks this season. To mitigate this, avoid particularly muddy routes, wash your dog after walks, and regularly check their fur.
Conkers and Acorns
Although conkers and acorns may seem harmless, they pose a great risk if ingested, especially to smaller dogs. While serious cases of poisoning are rare, the round, tough shape of conkers makes them difficult to digest, and they can block the stomach or intestines. And while many dogs will avoid their bitter taste, playing with them and throwing them around might tempt them to have a taste!
Even though they may look like harmless fun, it’s best to keep them out of reach. Why not check out these safe toys to add some fun to your walkies instead?
Plants
As with each season, you’ll quickly notice a new array of plants popping up on your walks.
Here is a small selection of popular autumn toxicities you should avoid:
- Bulbs: Daffodil, Tulip, and Hyacinth bulbs
- Berries: Holly, Mistletoe, and Deadly Nightshade
- Mushrooms: Death Cap, Fly Agaric, and Autumn Galerina
It’s dark already!
As the days get shorter and the nights longer, you might need to adjust how you take your dog on their walks. Here are some ways to make sure you and your pup travel as safely as possible:
Reflective collars
If you regularly take your dog out in the evenings, make sure you’re easily seen when being passed by cyclists or cars. A great way to do so is by using a reflective collar and leash!
Well-lit routes
Stick to well-lit routes, such as paths with streetlights, to enhance visibility for you and your furry friend. Dogs have better vision than humans, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t at risk.
Flashlights
Ensure your phone is fully charged and use the torch setting as a flashlight to keep yourself safe on darker paths.
Want to learn more? Check out these tips for keeping safe in the dark.
So much noise!
Autumn is filled with festivities, from Halloween to Bonfire Night, so expect to hear fireworks pop up. These can spook your furry friend, so it’s important to prepare to ease as much anxiety as you can.
Some measures you can take include closing all windows and blinds to muffle noise and hinder flashing lights, playing calming background noise, and even providing calming supplements to soothe anxiety.
A little goes a long way
As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, a little preparation can make a big difference. By staying mindful of your puppy’s unique needs, you can help them enjoy the season to the fullest!
Want to take extra caution this Halloween? Check out this guide!
