With the arrival of fall (it officially began on Saturday!), the crisp air and colorful leaves create the perfect backdrop for outdoor fun with your dog. But as the season changes, it's essential to ensure your pet is comfortable, safe, and well cared for. Here are some top tips to help your dog enjoy the season to the fullest.
1. Watch Out for Seasonal Allergies
Autumn brings more than just beautiful foliage—it also comes with allergens that might bother your pets. Falling leaves, mold, and dust can lead to sneezing, itching, and general discomfort. If your pet seems more irritated than usual, it might be time to check in with your vet for some allergy relief.
2. Maintain Their Grooming Routine
Your dog’s coat may need a little extra care as the seasons change. Regular grooming helps remove dead hair, dirt, and debris that may get trapped in their coat during fall activities. Brushing your dog more frequently can also help reduce shedding, and a warm bath can be a great way to refresh their coat after an adventure. At Oak Grove Kennel, we offer grooming services that will keep your dog looking and feeling their best through the cooler months!
3. Keep an Eye on Outdoor Pests
Ticks don’t disappear when the weather cools—they’re still active in the fall, especially in areas with lots of foliage. After a hike or a romp through the leaves, give your dog a thorough check for ticks, paying close attention to areas like the ears, underbelly, and between toes. Preventative tick treatments are also key to keeping your dog safe from tick-borne illnesses.
4. Keep Them Warm, But Not Overheated
Fall brings cooler days, but there are still warm afternoons that can surprise both you and your pet. A cozy blanket or a warm bed is great for those brisk mornings, but avoid bundling up too much when the sun is out. Be mindful of temperature changes, and adjust your pet’s outdoor gear accordingly.
5. Be Visible in the Dark
With shorter days and longer nights, walks in the dark may become more common. Keep your dog safe by ensuring they’re visible to others, whether it’s with reflective gear, light-up collars, or even a light for their leash. This extra visibility will help drivers and other pedestrians spot your pet when it’s dim outside.
6. Watch for Toxic Fall Foods
As we indulge in our favorite fall treats, it’s crucial to remember that some seasonal favorites can be harmful to our pets. Here are a few common fall foods to keep out of paw’s reach:
Chocolate: With Halloween just around the corner, chocolate treats are everywhere. Even small amounts can be toxic to both dogs and cats, leading to vomiting, increased heart rate, and even seizures. Make sure your pet steers clear of trick-or-treat stashes and desserts that contain chocolate.
Pumpkin Spice Products: While plain pumpkin (in moderation) is generally safe and even healthy for pets, many pumpkin spice products—like lattes, cookies, and muffins—contain nutmeg, which can be toxic to pets. Nutmeg contains a compound called myristicin, which can cause disorientation, increased heart rate, and even seizures in larger amounts.
Caffeine: Fall drinks like coffee and tea are a go-to for many of us, but caffeine is highly toxic to pets. Even small amounts of coffee, soda, or tea can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors.
Grapes and Raisins: Common in fall treats like cookies, pies, and stuffing, grapes and raisins are extremely dangerous for dogs. Even a small amount can lead to kidney failure.
Onions and Garlic: Fall soups, stews, and savory dishes often contain onions and garlic, both of which are toxic to dogs and cats. They can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia.
Alcohol: If you’re enjoying a seasonal drink, be sure to keep it away from pets. Alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, and even respiratory failure in pets.
Candy with Xylitol: Xylitol, a sweetener found in many sugar-free candies and baked goods, is extremely toxic to dogs. It can cause a rapid insulin release, leading to dangerously low blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure.
Be sure to store any potentially dangerous food well out of your pet’s reach and dispose of leftovers properly. If your pet ingests any of these harmful substances, contact your vet or an emergency pet clinic immediately. Prevention is key, but quick action can save your pet from a life-threatening situation.
As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, fall is the perfect season to embark on new adventures with your furry friend by your side. Whether it’s a scenic hike, cozy nights by the fire, or fun in the pumpkin patch, this time of year brings endless opportunities to bond with your pet. While you're out enjoying the beauty of the season, don’t forget that the changing weather also means it’s important to keep your pet's health and well-being in check. From seasonal grooming to extra care, Oak Grove Kennel is here to make sure your pet stays happy, healthy, and ready to explore everything autumn has to offer. So, get outside, soak up the fall magic, and enjoy every moment with your four-legged adventure buddy!
(Source: American Kennel Club on harmful foods for pets and ASPCA's list of Pet Poisonous Plants and Foods)
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