Autumn/Fall Safety for Pets
As the leaves change and the weather cools, autumn brings new opportunities and challenges for pet owners. At Crossroads Animal Hospital, we’re committed to ensuring your furry friends stay safe and healthy throughout the fall season.
Here are some important pet safety tips to keep in mind as you and your pets enjoy the autumn months.
Keep Pets Warm and Comfortable
As temperatures drop, it’s important to make sure your pets stay warm, especially during early morning and evening walks. Short-haired breeds and older pets are particularly susceptible to the cold.
- Provide Cozy Bedding: Ensure your pet has a warm, comfortable place to sleep indoors.
- Dress for the Weather: Consider pet-safe clothing, like sweaters or jackets, for short-haired or older pets.
- Monitor Outdoor Time: Limit your pets’ time outside during colder days and keep them dry to prevent hypothermia.
Watch Out for Seasonal Hazards
Autumn brings specific hazards that can pose risks to your pets’ safety. Be aware of the following potential dangers:
- Toxic Plants: Certain plants, such as chrysanthemums and autumn crocuses, are toxic to pets. Keep your pets away from these plants, both indoors and outdoors.
- Antifreeze Spills: As car owners prepare for winter, antifreeze spills become more common. Antifreeze is highly toxic to pets, so clean up any spills immediately and store chemicals out of reach.
- Mushrooms: Many wild mushrooms are toxic to pets. Prevent your pets from eating mushrooms they find during walks or in your yard.
Halloween Safety for Pets
Halloween can be a fun time for families, but can also be stressful and dangerous for pets. Here are some tips to keep your pets safe:
- Keep Candy Out of Reach: Chocolate and many candies are toxic to pets. Make sure to keep all treats out of reach.
- Secure Decorations: Keep lit candles and decorations like electrical cords out of pets’ reach to prevent burns and electrical shocks.
- Reduce Stress: The constant doorbell ringing, and the presence of strangers can be stressful for pets. Create a quiet, secure space where they can feel safe during trick-or-treating hours.
Fall Activities and Pet Safety
Enjoying autumn activities with your pet is fun, but keep safety in mind:
- Leaf Piles: Pets love to play in leaf piles, but these can harbor ticks, mold, and other hazards. Check your pet for ticks and clean them off after playtime.
- Hiking and Walks: Fall is an excellent time for hiking, but be sure to keep your pet on a leash, and be aware of local wildlife and hunting seasons.
Seasonal Allergies
Just like humans, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies. If you notice your pet scratching more than usual or experiencing skin irritations, consult with us for the best course of action.
- Regular Baths: Bathe your pet with a hypoallergenic shampoo to remove allergens from their coat.
- Medication: Talk to your veterinarian about appropriate allergy medications for your pet.
Stay Safe and Enjoy the Fall Season With Your Pet
Autumn is a beautiful season, but taking extra precautions is essential to make sure your pets stay safe and healthy. From keeping them warm to watching out for seasonal hazards, a little preparation can go a long way.
At Crossroads Animal Hospital, our team is here to support you through every season with Fear Free® techniques that put your furry friend at ease. Call our office if you have questions or to schedule a wellness visit or other service for your pet.