Isn't fall a fantastic time to be a pet parent? You get to enjoy pup-kin spiced lattes and cat-puccinos in the crisp autumn weather. Beyond warm drinks, the season is an excellent time for making warm and fuzzy memories, like enjoying fall colors during a neighborhood stroll with your dog or watching birds take off for warmer climes while sitting on the porch with your cat.
To keep the focus on fun and prevent your pet from autumn dangers, we're sharing our favorite fall safety tips for your furry companion. Keep reading for our top five safety concerns that are often overlooked by pet parents.
1. Keep Your Pets Away from Compost
Composting turns your trash into treasure, and some pets find a heap of organic waste irresistible. What's so dangerous about compost? Mycotoxin. These mold-like fungi are highly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Fence off or secure your compost pile to prevent your pet from being poisoned, and watch your pup on walks, so they don't sniff out the abundance in a neighbor's yard.
2. A Bright Idea: Help Your Pet Be Seen Outside
As daylight hours get shorter, it's even more important to stay visible on walks. Wearing bright colors and using a reflective leash and collar help others see you and your pet on even the darkest nights.
Consider buying a collar with LED lights or a light-up tag that attaches like an ID. These options help you find your cat or dog should they escape at night, and help drivers see your pet from much further away if they run into the road.
3. Don't Leave Your Pet In the Dark
Senior pets may have trouble seeing after sunset, making them feel vulnerable and scared. Be sure your pet's ID tag is secure and up-to-date with your phone number in case your dog or cat gets disoriented and lost.
An implanted microchip is also a vital tool for reuniting with a lost pet. If you recently adopted a new furry friend and haven't had a chance to have them microchipped, make an appointment before Halloween.
4. Be Wary of Hidden Poisoning Hazards
As you prepare for winter, be mindful of where your pets frequent in and around your home. For example, if your dog or cat has access to the garage where you add antifreeze to the car, thoroughly clean up any drips and store the remaining liquid in a secure location. Just a tablespoon of antifreeze can be fatal for cats, and it doesn't take much more to harm your dog permanently.
The same is true when taking care of unwanted rodents. It's typical for mice and rats to make their way indoors as the weather cools, but be careful about how you evict them. Pests love peanut butter, making it a popular choice for bait. Since dogs also love peanut butter, don't put traps where your pup may find them. Additionally, cats and dogs can get hurt by eating poisoned rodents, so avoid rodenticides in your home and yard.
5. Fall Allergies Are an Issue, Fur-Real
Between mold, fungi, ragweed, and mildew, many pets suffer from sneezing and itching as the season changes. If your pet has watery eyes, itchy ears or paws, or is incessantly scratching their armpits, they may have seasonal allergies. If you see these symptoms in your dog or cat, make an appointment to see us.
Have a Lovely Pup-tober and Feline-Fall!
Keep your pets safe, healthy, and happy all fall. Whether your elderly pet has autumnal aches and pains or if you just adopted a new best friend, we are here for you. Make an appointment for your pet's checkup before the busy holiday season kicks off. Be-leaf us: your pet's wellbeing is our top priority.
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