Fall has officially arrived! This is a wonderful time of year for our canine friends. After all, fall provides ideal conditions for taking your canine best buddy for a walk in a beautiful park. However, as with every other season, October has its own set of hazards that pet owners should be aware of. A local Marin County, CA veterinarian has listed some of the main ones below.
Keep Track of Your Pet’s Parasite Control
While many smaller pests will hibernate throughout the colder months, we have not reached that point yet. Fleas and ticks do not leave peacefully. In fact, when the weather cools, they will become even more persistent about staying indoors. Don’t forget to treat your pet for parasites. Continue to inspect for ticks after bringing your pet inside from outside.
Keep An Eye Out For Wildlife
Many wild creatures prepare to hibernate for the winter in the fall. Some are likely to be hoarding and gathering as much food as possible. Many of these animals may be crankier than usual. Be extremely cautious, especially if you’re in a remote region. If you have a fenced yard, bring Fido in before it gets dark, and keep an eye on him if you allow him out after sunset. When walking your dog, don’t allow him to sniff around areas where wild animals may be hiding, and definitely don’t let him go off-leash in woods or fields.
Take Care With Mushrooms
Some pets will simply ignore mushrooms, which is the best-case situation here. Others, however, will be intrigued enough to try eating them. This might be really harmful. Many mushrooms are highly hazardous. Some can be dangerous. Don’t let your dog eat mushrooms when you’re out walking him. If you have a fenced yard, keep an eye out and carefully remove and discard of any that you find growing on your property.
Keep Him Warm
Don’t presume Fido’s fur coat will keep him warm. It will help, but many dogs require more protection than that. If your pet has smooth, short fur, he may need to sport a doggy jacket on frigid days. If your dog wears a coat, ensure sure all of his winter gear is clean and in good shape. A warm, cozy canine bed is also essential.
Adjusting Walking Practices
Because it gets dark early, you may find yourself walking your canine companion after sunset rather frequently. Make sure you have brightly colored clothing. This would require a jacket for you and a leash and collar for your dog. A light-up leash is not a bad idea.
Make Fido’s Alone Time Comfortable
Does your dog stay home alone while you go to work to pay for his toys, treats, and food? You may want to switch on a light for your canine companion before you leave, as it may be dark when you arrive home. That way, your pet won’t be left alone in a dark house.
Limit Allergen Exposure
Anyone with allergies may find the fall season difficult, if not downright terrible. Pollen, dust, dander, mold, and mildew are frequently present throughout this season. This can bother pets just as much as it does humans. Itching, runny eyes, respiratory troubles, skin problems, and sneezing are all warning indicators to be aware of. If you know or believe your pet has allergies, contact your veterinarian.
You can use a pollen tracker to monitor levels. Reduce Fido’s outdoor time when levels are high. Before bringing your pet inside, you may wish to wipe his paws and belly with a damp cloth. It will remove pollen, dust, and dander from his fur. Regular vacuuming and dusting are also beneficial.
Take Care With Decorations
Autumn decorations offer your home a distinct seasonal and whimsical air. However, keep your canine companion’s safety in mind. Many of our four-legged friends like chewing on whatever they can. Anything little or pointed, as well as anything long or stringy, could pose a risk. This includes ropes, garlands, and the phony spiderwebs you hang on the porch. Items that move, light up, or create noise are all harmful. These usually require wires or batteries, neither of which are suitable for Fido to eat or chew on.
If your dog is a chewer, keep in mind that many decorations made of foam and plastic are not suitable for them to consume.
Give Stiff And Sore Joints Extra Attention
Cold, damp weather can affect dogs with bone/joint problems, such as arthritis or hip dysplasia. If your beloved companion appears stiff and sore, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian straight soon. Many of these disorders are incurable, although they can be treated if addressed early on.
If Fido has arthritis, you may need to take extra precautions to keep him warm in cold weather. One critical consideration is providing your dog with a comfortable bed to snuggle in. This will not only help your pet sleep better, but it will also keep him warm and protect him from cold flooring.
Fido’s fuzzy feet might suffer greatly during the winter months. Snow, salt, sand, ice, and chemical de-icers can all lead to painful burns and abrasions. Prepare some pet-safe de-icers for the chilly weather.
Ask your veterinarian for more information on how to care for an arthritic puppy.
Schedule A Professional Grooming Session
If you’ve had your dog’s hair cut for the summer, now is the time to let it grow out. You should also give Fido a good bath before it gets cold. Schedule an appointment for your pet at his doggy salon.
Caution With Fire
Candles and fires can create a warm atmosphere in your house, but you must exercise caution. Fido can easily knock a candle off a coffee table with a single thump of his wagging tail. Keep candles in thick sconces and light them high, out of reach of paws.
If you use a fireplace or start a fire in a pit, be sure your furry friend doesn’t go too close. Use a sturdy grate over fireplaces, and ensure sure pits are arranged so your pet cannot accidentally fall or wander into the fire.
Keep Up with Grooming
Fall is a popular grooming season for our canine pets. As Fido transitions from his summer clothes to thicker fur, you may notice pet hair everywhere. You may need to brush him more than normal at this time of year. (Tip: take your dog outside for these sessions. The excess fur will simply blow away rather than getting all over everything. You may also want to wear an apron.)
Enjoy Long Walks with Fido
Finally, make the most of beautiful weather. Bring your adorable pet to a scenic park or try out a new trail with him. This is an excellent time to meet together with friends who own puppies. Grab some coffee and enjoy the gorgeous weather! The time outdoors will be great for both you and your furry bestie.
Make An Appointment At Our Marin County, CA Pet Clinic
Does your dog need to come in? Is Fido due for a checkup, immunizations, or parasite treatment? Please do not hesitate to contact us at your Marin County, CA pet hospital. We are committed to providing high-quality veterinary treatment and exceptional customer service.
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