Dog Safety Tips for Autumn

Dog Safety Tips for Autumn. Firstly, keep him or her warm. In some regions, the temperature drops quickly once fall hits. Be careful with mushrooms. Watch out for wildlife. Let there be light.

The leaves are changing, the cool air is drifting in, and the dog days of summer are making way for a beautiful autumn. As the holiday season approaches, it’s critical to keep your dog happy, healthy, and safe.  

Keep this precautionary list for fall safety in the back of your mind… but don’t let it stop you from enjoying nature this season!

Keep Him or Her Warm In Autumn

In some regions, the temperature drops quickly once fall hits. Put a blanket on the porch for your dog if he or she spends a lot of time playing in the yard. Don't leave him or her out for extended periods of time in the late evenings and early mornings. Most breeds are well-equipped to withstand cooler temperatures, but others – like Chihuahuas, Greyhounds and Salukis – are not. Help him or her transition slowly from the heat of summer… at least until his or her winter coat comes in.

Let There Be Light

As the days get shorter, it only makes sense to plan walks in the dark. Invest in reflective gear for yourself and your dog, or better yet if you can walk your dog during daylight hours.

Avoid Allergy

Fall allergens like ragweed and mold can cause your dogs to itch, sneeze and cough all season long. The first step is avoidance – but this isn’t always possible, especially if you don’t know exactly what’s causing your dog’s allergic reactions. If you suspect he has seasonal allergies, talk to your veterinarian about getting him tested to determine the most effective natural treatment plan.

Keep Your Nutritional Needs In Mind

Chances are your dog will be livelier now that the air is fresher. Take his activity level into account when reassessing his diet for the season – does he or she need more calories to account for the energy he’s expending? Should I rotate his or her protein to ensure he or she is getting the nutrients he or she needs?

Dog-Proof Your Environment

Dog Safety Tips for Autumn require you to do a daily sweep of your yard. Make sure it's safe for your canine companion. Clean up rotten fruit that’s fallen off trees, as the seeds, stems and leaves aren’t suitable for dogs to eat. Break off any bare sticks that your dog can get caught on while playing – as they shed their leaves, they also pose more of a danger to your dog’s eyes. If you’ve already put anti-freeze in your car to prepare for the first frost, be sure that no spills have pooled anywhere that your dog can access.

Careful Around Mushrooms

This time of year, mushrooms start popping up on forest floors and around your yard. While most of these fungi are safe to eat, others are highly toxic to your dog – and it’s wise not to take the risk. Prevent your dog from ingesting them by supervising independent play and keeping him or her close during off-leash walks and hikes. If you suspect he or she has eaten one, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.

Watch Out For Wildlife

It’s almost hibernation season! This means that wild animals – like skunks, bears, and snakes – are out and about, busily preparing for their winter snooze. If you and your dog find yourself in the woods, keep a close eye out for these creatures, and mind your distance! If you live in an area that’s home to venomous snakes, consider keeping your dog on-leash until the snow falls.

This information is brought to you as a public service by Value Dog Training – In Home Dog Training.

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