As the seasons change, so do potential safety risks for your pets. You may not be as worried about the heat or having them at a family barbecue or the pool, but there are other concerns to keep in mind. Autumn brings about its own slew of holidays and activities for you to be aware of when it comes to your canine and feline companions.
1. Be critter aware. When you have your pet outdoors, stay alert for snakes, spiders, fleas, and ticks. This is the time of year when they’re coming out of hiding, and it’s not unusual to find them in your yard or shrubbery. Clean up any piles of leaves or debris, seal up cracks around your home, and pay attention when your dog is sniffing around. Keep them away from any rodent deterrents as they may be toxic, and don’t forget to continue applying their flea and tick repellent.
2. Stay away from mushrooms. Another potential danger to be alert for while outside with your dog – mushrooms. While many are safe, there are some that can be toxic to pets, and it can be hard to differentiate between them. Keep your curious pup from snagging a bite of any mushrooms just to be on the safe side.
3. Be weather aware. Temperatures can drop quickly, and there may suddenly be a chill in the air. Don’t leave your dog or cat outside unattended for long periods of time. While their fur can help keep them warm, they may not have grown their winter coat in yet, and older dogs (and younger ones) often have more difficulty regulating their body temperature. Let them come inside to warm up.
4. Be cautious of decorations. As you’re putting out your fall décor, make sure it is out of reach of your pet, and that it is not something they’ll be attracted to like cinnamon sticks, corn cobs, strings of popcorn, or dried apple slices. Potpourri can smell enticing but be toxic to your dog. Keep any fragile items away from the edge of counters or shelves where your pet may knock them off, and tuck electrical cords out of sight so they don’t get chewed on or tangled up in.
5. Clean up spills. Autumn is the time when many people are starting to add antifreeze to their vehicles in preparation for cooler temps. If you spill any on the driveway, or it leaks out of your car, be vigilant about washing it away and steering your pet clear of puddles. You don’t want them accidentally ingesting the antifreeze, as it can make them very ill. Be sure to store any chemicals away from areas where your pet may be.
Knowing potential dangers and keeping your pet safe is all part of being a responsible pet owner. If you’re worried that your dog or cat may get into trouble while you’re away, board them at Lake Wylie Pet Resort. We offer luxurious accommodations and high-quality care so you can have peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s next stay!