As the leaves change color and the air grows crisp, it’s that time of year when our furry friends, both feline and canine, can’t resist the temptation of a world filled with falling leaves and squirrels on the move. While it might seem like a whimsical wonderland for our pets, the fall season also presents its fair share of dangers for them.
We go over some things you as a pet parent need to be aware of this season in order to keep your fur babies safe!
Toxic Plants: Many fall plants like chrysanthemums and poinsettias can be toxic to both cats and dogs. Keep these seasonal blooms out of reach. Autumn crocus is also extremely toxic.
Seasonal Allergies: Just like humans, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies in the fall. Watch for signs of sneezing, itching, or excessive licking, and consult your vet if needed. Sometimes, a good bath is a wonderful treatment for your dog or cat suffering from allergies—Collar Cuts mobile pet grooming services Broomfield, Arvada, South Boulder and more. We come to you so schedule your appointment with us today.
Toxic Mushrooms: Fall is mushroom season, and some wild mushrooms can be poisonous to pets. Be cautious and ensure your furry companions don’t nibble on any fungi they come across. Toxic mushrooms can grow in various locations, including wooded areas, rocky terrains, parks, and even your backyard. Identifying toxic mushrooms can be challenging, so it’s best to assume all wild mushrooms are dangerous.
Rodent Bait: As the weather cools, rodents seek shelter, leading to increased use of rodent baits and traps. These can be highly toxic to pets, so keep them inaccessible.
Antifreeze: The sweet taste of antifreeze can be irresistible to pets, yet it’s extremely toxic. Watch out for leaks and ensure your pets don’t come in contact with it. Leaks can be found in parking spots like your driveway and of course, antifreeze containers need to be kept far away and properly sealed!
Falling Leaves: Rambunctious play in leaf piles can hide sharp objects or even pests. Keep an eye on your pets while they enjoy the autumn foliage. Pests like beetles, earwigs, spiders, aphids, snakes, ticks and stinging insects are commonly found in fall leaves.
Daylight Savings Time: The shift in time can disrupt your pets’ routine. Adjust feeding, walking, and playtime to avoid any confusion. Don’t forget: daylight savings ends on November 5 when you’ll have to turn your clocks back an hour.
Wildlife Encounters: Fall is a busy time for wildlife preparing for winter. Cats may be tempted to chase birds, while dogs might want to chase squirrels or raccoons. Supervise outdoor adventures to avoid unwanted encounters.
Halloween Hazards: Candy, decorations, and costumes can pose risks. Chocolate is toxic and can be fatal to dogs and cats. Also, take note that artificial sweeteners and small toys are dangerous if ingested. Keep Halloween treats and decorations away from curious noses and paws.
Colder Temperatures: As the weather cools down, be mindful of your pets’ comfort and safety. Provide them with warm shelter and don’t leave them outside in chilly weather for extended periods.
By staying aware of these fall hazards and taking preventive measures, you can ensure your beloved pets enjoy the season safely and without any spooky surprises.
Sources:
Aspca.org
vcahopsitals.com
todayshomeowner.com
openai.com
