Home Safety What should pet parents think about in the fall of the year?

What should pet parents think about in the fall of the year?

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What should pet parents think about in the fall of the year?
June Brooks, DVM, Northside Animal Hospital

Fall brings color and temperatures that encourage us to enjoy the season. Here is a short list to turn your attention to as autumn days grow short and temperatures drift lower.

Continue to use preventatives for ticks and fleas. These critters are active when the temperature is 32 degrees or warmer. Oral or topical medications will protect your companion from irritating bites and disease transmission. They will also protect you.

Mushrooms and other oddities often appear on walks in the autumn. Do your best to keep your pet from eating them. Should your pet have a dietary indiscretion, try to gather a sample of what was eaten and contact your veterinarian or local emergency service. 

Halloween can be stressful for your pet. Dogs may be startled and frightened by costumes. When they feel frightened, they may react defensively. Keep your masks off when you are around your pets. My dog really enjoyed her morning walk the day after Halloween as she found lots of discarded treats in the grass; try to prevent your pet from scarfing down candy and other treats. Xylitol, a sweetener used in sugarless gums and candies, can be lethal to your pet. Keeping pets’ stress levels low and keeping human treats away will make for a happy Halloween.

During hunting seasons, blaze orange or blaze pink can protect both you and your pet as you enjoy the woods. 

Thanksgiving gives us the opportunity to be grateful for companions who love us unconditionally. It is also time for celebration which can be stressful. If you are hosting or traveling, make plans in advance to keep your friends safe and calm. Show your gratitude for their devotion.

Enjoy the best of the season with happy, healthy pets.