🐾Welcome to our first newsletter covering all things Autumn! Whilst Autumn can be an incredibly pretty time, it can also be a time when not all things from the season are safe for our pets, both in the garden and whilst out on our lovely walks. Here's some tips to identify health hazards during the Autumn period. 🐾
At this time of year apples are likely to fall naturally from the trees but may contain hidden hazards such as sleepy wasps and other insects. Fallen apples which have started to ferment can also cause bad tummies.
These will be far more popular on walks and are somewhat smaller to notice than apples. Dogs will love to chew on these as they do sticks but they can be toxic to dogs as they contain something called tannic acid. Conkers are similar in their toxic content with something called aesculin which can cause sickness and tummy upsets.
Such as toadstools and mushrooms can sometimes be found in parks, along streets (growing on trees). and in front gardens.
As lovely as these will become in the spring, bulbs can be dangerous to dogs. So if you are planting ready for next spring and you have a cheeky dog who loves to dig, keep your eyes on them in case they dig them up and consume. Daffodil, Tulip, and Crocus bulbs are some to look out for.
Whilst these are not toxic to dogs, they can carry a parasite called Lungworm. The wet weather encourages slugs and snails to venture out and you will find more on our pavements as well as in the garden.
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies, especially in the Autumn when mould, and pollen levels rise. Your dog might experience symptoms such as itching, watery eyes, sneezing, or skin irritation. After walks, wipe down your dog’s paws and fur to remove any allergens. If symptoms persist, consult your vet for possible treatments. If your dog encounters any of the above contact your vet to take advice. In addition, keep your dog on lead to ensure their safety when walking in open spaces where they may be exposed to these items.
Fireworks can cause a great deal of stress to our dogs and other pets and can be recognised in a number of ways: Whining or barking, cowering, hiding, excessive panting, holding their tail underneath them, trembling, shaking and maybe even going off their food. Cats can also be affected by fireworks and will demonstrate their fear by maybe going off their food, hiding, fearful body language or even pacing showing restlessness.
️⏱️ Choose to walk earlier in the day to avoid being out when fireworks are being let off
🫂 Stay with your pet, don’t leave them home alone.
️🕶️ Close curtain/blinds to block out visual and as much noise as possible.
🔇 Find a nice quiet corner in the home where your dog can go to feel safe, but ensuring that you are nearby if they need comforting or reassurance.
😊 Try to stay calm and relaxed as your dog will pick up on your feelings and may react.
😺 Cats are best kept inside if possible, and like with dogs find them somewhere safe to hide.
💊 Finally there are some medications which can help. These are best sought from your vet.
As the days get shorter it will be hard to avoid the darker evenings so be prepared.
🦺 Wear reflective gear both you and your dog.
🏮 Attach a light to your dog's collar.
🐕 Keep your dog on lead.
Autumn is a lovely time of year and we hope the above tips have helped. Happy Walking! 🐾