Fall Safety Tips for Dogs
Everyone loves autumn's vibrant colors, fall smells and cool breezes but as a pet owner you should beware of the season's dangers. Every dog walker in Raleigh should take heed of the potential hazards that fall brings. Keep these fall safety tips in mind the next time you and your furry friend head outside.
Snake Bite Safety
As the temperatures are cooling and we're nearing fall, snakes start preparing for brumation (where they don’t actually sleep but instead slow their metabolism to acclimate to the cooler temperatures). Snake bites are more common between April and October when outdoor dog activites are more popular. Snakes breed and hatch during the fall season which makes male snakes much more aggressive while trying to attract female snakes. Snakelets are also aggressive as they're trying to avoid potential predators. During the fall season there are more sticks and leaves on the ground making snakes harder to spot for any dog walker.
Antifreeze
Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is toxic to dogs and cats. The metabolic products of the ethylene glycol cause severe damage to the pet's kidneys, which then produce a toxic exposure to the central nervous system. A very small amount of antifreeze is deadly to pets. Please seek emergency treatment if you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze.
Keeping all antifreeze containers high on shelves and sealed in your garage is the best way to avoid poisoning. Periodically check for leaks underneath your vehicle and keep any eye out for small puddles on your street is the best way to avoid ingestion during dog activities.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection, it is most severe in puppies less than 6 months old and immune-compromised dogs. The most common symptom is a cough which gets worse with exercise or excitement. Most dogs can get better without medical attention in 10-14 days however if your dog shows symptoms such as: fever, colored nasal discharge, lethargy, lack of appetite and increased effort when breathing you should contact your vet.
Kennel cough is common in the fall due to people traveling around the holidays thus using dog boarding facilities.
Check for Ticks
We love to take adorable photos of our pets in the beautiful autumn leaves just as much as our pets love to play in and chase leaves blowing in the wind. Ticks thrive in damp environments and can be lurking in piles of fallen leaves. It is best to speak to your vet to find a flea and tick preventative for your dogs! Thoroughly check your pets for ticks daily, especially after spending time outdoors. If one is found, remove it right away. The diagram below shows the most common places that ticks like to hide.
Be careful with mushrooms
While most mushrooms have little toxicity, 1% are highly toxic and can be life threatening to pets. It is best to prevent your dog from possibly ingesting them by supervising play and keeping him or her close during off-leash walks or hikes. If you suspect your pet has eaten one, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
Keep them safe during walks and outdoor play time
As the temperatures begin to get cooler, early mornings and late evenings can quickly become colder. Avoid having your pets outside for prolonged periods of time-- especially senior pets, puppies and smaller animals. Consider purchasing weather appropriate clothing such as rain jackets and sweaters for your pets to keep them warm and dry! With autumn also brings shorter days and more walks in the dark, you may also want to invest in reflective gear such as leashes, collars or jackets for your pets.
Can dogs eat pumpkin?
Yes! Canned or fresh pumpkin is a healthy snack for your dogs that helps with digestion and is good for your dog's skin and coat. If feeding them canned pumpkin, be sure it is just pumpkin and not the spiced pie mix.
Some Hooman fall favorites that are unsafe or unhealthy for your pets include: turkey bones and skin, chocolate, alcoholic beverages, corn on the cob, onions, garlic, and raisins, just to name a few.
More for fall: read about Halloween dog events in Raleigh, try some fall sniff walks, or find a spot in our guide to the best dog parks in Raleigh.