Be Prepared For Fall’s Unexpected Hazards
As a dog parent, fall time is some of the best times to enjoy the outdoors together. The temperature outside is not too hot and not too cold, making it the perfect weather for a walk. The trees' colors are changing, meaning leaf piles are just around the corner (and we know how some dogs love a big leaf pile). Yes, it’s true that autumn brings with it some of the best conditions, however, it also brings with it some potential hidden stressors for your four-legged family member. Not to worry. There’s a simple solution for them all.
Keep an eye out for fungus.
Where the leaves pile up, wild mushrooms may appear and a good rule of thumb is to keep your pooch away. Mushrooms love the damp environment that leaves create when under a tree or raked in a cool area, so keep your eyes peeled no matter where you are outside.
Before letting your dog outside in the backyard, check for wild mushrooms and dispose of them right away. Mushrooms are sneaky and can sprout up overnight so it’s important to give your yard a daily check. While you’re out there, look for fallen fruit like apples, plums, or apricots which contain toxic seeds.
Stay safe during night walks.
The shorter days and longer nights have arrived, which means your PM walks are after sunset. It’s physically and mentally important for you and your pup to get a stroll in each day so if it’s nighttime, be aware of situations that you may not run into during the daytime.
With darkness comes decreased visibility and more opportunities for your dog to sneak in a streetside snack or two. Monitor your pooch closely and carry a flashlight for both of your safety. Better yet, make sure you are visible to other walkers, animals, and traffic when outside at night. A reflective collar, LED collar, or safety vest is an excellent addition to your nighttime gear.
Watch for antifreeze.
This comes a little later in the year but you can never be too safe when it comes to antifreeze. It only takes a tiny little lick to severely harm a small to medium sized dog. When walking your pooch, keep them from puddles or streams where antifreeze may be present. Keep your eyes open and a tighter hold on the leash if needed; especially for the overly curious walkers.
Prepare for flea peak season.
It’s true that colder temperatures will kill off fleas, but the fall is when fleas thrive. Only in months of consistent cold (temperatures at 30 degrees or lower) will fleas die. This is not the time to back off or reduce your flea prevention. With more frequent outside play, things like flea infestations, itchy skin, and allergies are more common in the fall than in spring or summer. Keep your dog protected throughout the fall season and continue using a flea preventative.
Get ready for seasonal allergies.
We all know that autumn and allergies go hand in hand and just like with humans, they can affect your dog too. Dust, mold, ragweed, pollen and even some grasses can cause all sorts of allergy symptoms like itching, scratching, watery eyes, runny noses, and even ear infections. Having the right kind of defenses set in place to treat allergies is your best bet.
Make a paw washing station by your back and front doors and wipe your pup’s paws every time they come in to keep them nice and clean. This can prevent allergens from being tracked throughout the house and onto bedding. Don’t forget to schedule regular hydrabaths from your local operator every 2-4 weeks to rinse away allergens and soothe itchy skin.
The best part about fall is the change in colors and the crisp feeling in the air; we want you to enjoy them worry-free. Take time to prepare for these weather-induced hazards and get outside to enjoy the beautiful weather while it’s still here.