With autumn finally here, the colder weather brings some unexpected hazards for your pup. To help ensure you and your pets enjoy the season, we wanted to share some pet safety tips for fall!
To help with the colder weather, many car owners need to put anti-freeze or engine coolant in their car. Since the coolant tastes sweet, many animals can’t resist it - but it is extremely harmful to pets; it is fast acting and can result in death in as little as four hours! If you suspect your pet has ingested coolant, call your vet right away! Even when you aren’t using it, make sure you store it in a safe place where pets can’t reach. Also, dispose of old anti-freeze in a sealed container and if you see a spill, clean it up immediately!
If you enjoy taking your pet for long walks through the wilderness, be extra cautious in autumn. Fall is mushroom season and even though most are harmless, some are highly toxic and can cause life-threatening problems. Try to keep pets on trails and away from potentially dangerous plants. It is getting darker earlier, so if you walk your pet at night take extra caution and have your pet wear reflective collars or use reflective leashes. It’s also hunting season, so make sure to wear bright clothing and ensure that your pup stays close to you. Stay visibile and safe!
Our last tip for fall conditions is: keep your pet warm! Indoor pets not used to fall conditions should not be left outside for extended amounts of time. Make sure they stay warm by purchasing jackets—they are cute AND functional! If you keep your pet outdoors, make sure he has a shelter for unpleasant weather and some sort of insulation to keep him warm (P.L.A.Y. beds work great!). Also, your pup needs more food during the colder months to generate the necessary body heat needed to stay warm - so make sure to feed him a little more than usual.
Fall is one of our favorite times of the year and we hope you and your pets enjoy it as much as we do! Stay safe and have fun playing in the leaves. Special thanks to all of our fans who posted adorable pictures of their dogs enjoying the fall - we could not have written this without you!