Fall Pet Safety: Your Quick Guide to a Happy Autumn
Fall is a beautiful time for long walks, but the changing season brings unique hazards for dogs. To keep your pup safe and healthy until winter, follow these essential, quick-reference safety practices.
1. Protect Paws from Grit and Grime
The damp ground, hidden debris, and eventual road salt can irritate and crack your dog’s paw pads.
- Wipe Paws Thoroughly: After every walk, use lukewarm water and a towel to clean your dog’s paws, especially between the toes. This is crucial for removing rock salt and mold spores from leaf piles.
- Trim Excess Fur: Keep the hair between the paw pads trimmed to prevent moisture, mud, and ice balls from accumulating.
- Apply Balm: Use a pet-safe paw balm or wax before walks to create a protective barrier against harsh surfaces and cracking.
2. Mind Toxic Chemicals and Fungi
Fall brings out dangerous toxins like antifreeze and wild mushrooms.
- Guard Against Poisons: Antifreeze (which contains lethal ethylene glycol) and rodenticides (rat poison) are common in fall. Store these chemicals securely and immediately clean up any spills in your garage or driveway.
- Steer Clear of Fungi: Assume all wild mushrooms are poisonous to dogs and remove any that grow in your yard. Also, prevent your dog from digging in large, wet leaf piles, which can harbor mold, bacteria, and ticks.
3. Adapt to Cold and Darkness
Shorter days and lower temperatures require adjustments to your routine.
- Boost Visibility: Use reflective gear (collars, vests) and a flashlight for nighttime walks to ensure visibility to drivers.
- Dress and Warmth: Short-haired, elderly, or smaller dogs may need a sweater or coat for chilly walks. Be aware that cold weather can worsen arthritis in older pets.
- Don’t Stop Prevention: Ticks remain highly active in fall leaves and tall grasses. Keep your dog’s year-round flea and tick preventative medication current and check them after outdoor time.
4. Beware of Holiday Toxins
Seasonal festivities introduce new risks from food and decor.
- Food Dangers: Secure all candy, especially chocolate and anything containing the highly toxic sweetener xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and treats).
- Decorations and Plants: Keep pets away from open flames (candles, fireplaces). Be aware that plants like Chrysanthemums and Autumn Crocus are toxic if ingested.
A few simple precautions will ensure your dog stays happy, healthy, and safe throughout this beautiful season!
At The Modern Dog, your pup’s safety and comfort always come first — especially during playtime! 🐾 Our playgroups are carefully supervised and organized by size and temperament to ensure positive, friendly interactions. We maintain a clean, secure environment using no harsh cleaning solutions, keeping it gentle on paws and noses. The temperature is always comfortable, so your dog can play and relax year-round. For everyone’s safety, treats are not allowed in the playrooms to prevent food-related tension or allergies. At The Modern Dog, your dog is always safe, happy, and well cared for. ❤️