Autumn Hazards for Pets
Autumn is the time for crisp walks, changing colours and falling leaves as well as a return to longer evenings, but it also brings a set of hazards to your pets you might not be aware of.
Continue reading for our list of hazards to be aware of as well as solutions to help keep your pets safe.
Acorns and conkers
Though attractive to pets given their size, shape and ability to fall from the sky unexpectedly (!), conkers, the seeds of the horse chestnut tree, are actually toxic to dogs. Although severe cases of poisoning are rare, these seeds can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and even toxic shock if ingested in large quantities.
Likewise, acorns contain gallotanins, (a combination of acids) which can lead to stomach upset in various degrees of severity. As a general rule of thumb it is best to prevent your dog from chewing or eating any nuts or seeds they find out on their walks.
Fireworks
Most of the animals we keep as pets are naturally hard-wired to be afraid of loud noises and during firework season many display signs of fear or distress. This is a result of their nervous systems being triggered by the unnaturally loud sounds, flashing lights and gunpowder odour that is even more acute thanks to a heightened sense of smell and hearing.
Aside from the additional risk of burns and injuries, the increase in heart rate and build up of stress hormones circulating the body can be very harmful, which makes fireworks one of the biggest hazards of the season.
(There are ways to help your pets cope with fireworks. Ask your vet for more information.)
Mushrooms
Most species of mushrooms are safe for dogs, but the 1% that aren't can be highly toxic (and unfortunately are some of the most appealing due to their unique odour!)
If your pet displays signs of vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain or weakness after a walk they may have ingested a poisonous mushroom and will need to see a vet immediately.
As a general rule it is best to avoid letting your pet consume any mushrooms, even ones you think may be safe, and be extra vigilent when walking in wooded areas.
Darker evening walks
As the nights draw in it's common for the last walk of the day to be done under the cover of darkness. The danger of this is a lack of visibility for you and your pet. Consider investing in a reflective collar or harness so you are visible to motorists and other road/footpath users.
Try to stick to familiar, well-lit pathways and limit off-lead exercise to day time only. Your pet can see much better in low-lighting than you, and the chances are they won't think twice about investigating a sound or chasing after a nocturnal animal. Losing a pet in darkness would be a frightening experience for both of you.
Additionally, the purchase of an outdoor coat for elderly dogs or those with thin coats would make your pet's evening walk more comfortable. If you're feeling the chill the chances are they will be too!