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- Paws in Pink to Benefit Breast Cancer Foundation
- VCA, Inc. Acquires MidWest Vet Specialists from Kansas State University
Fall Safety Tips For Your Pets
Did you know autumn can be just as hazardous for your furry friends as the holiday season? Cooler weather and shorter days are upon us. Like humans, many pets delight in the rich burst of colors and pleasures the fall season has to offer; there are some safety concerns you should be aware of.
Keep chocolate and other Halloween candy away from your pets. Store goodies like Reese’s peanut butter cups™ and Hershey bars™ safely out of paw’s reach. Make sure your pet is visible at night by having them wear a reflective collar, which mirrors light so that pedestrians and drivers can see them.
Make sure you have your pet’s identification tags and microchip up to date. Since it becomes dark earlier in the day, finding your animal companion outdoors if they are lost can present a challenge. In this article, you will discover safety tips to protect your pet.
Safety Tips
Fall is a time when change is abundant, and the shift in season can affect your pet as much as it affects you. They are attuned to these changes and have adapted accordingly. However, there are several changes your pet cannot navigate on their own. Since protecting your pet is a top priority, the following include tips to keep them safe this autumn:
Keep Your Pet Warm
When the temperatures drop, keeping your dog or cat warm and toasty is imperative. If it is chilly outside and your dog feels cold to the touch, they may need a doggie sweater. Short-haired dogs may benefit from a cozy little sweater. Just make sure it is not too tight on your pup and that the material is comfortable.
If you walk your furry feline outside when it is cold and windy, they can wear a kitty sweater. Provide your pet with warm bedding and a soft blanket when the autumn air is crisp and cool. Of course, you can always snuggle with your dog or cat while you “veg out” on the couch. Cuddling with your pet is recommended all year round.
Place Halloween Candy Out Of Paw’s Reach
Part of the fun of the fall season is the abundance of candy our kids score when they trick or treat. Chocolate is poisonous to pets, and the darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is for Fido and Fluffy. The BCSPCA explains, “Chocolate is toxic to dogs because it contains caffeine and a chemical called theobromine.” Some other candies that are yummy for humans but dangerous for pets include:
Raisins- Lollipops
- Candy corn
- Bubble gum
- Sugar-free candies
- Candy with nuts (especially macadamia nuts)
As a general rule, you should avoid giving your pet any type of candy. Any kind of chocolate candy is especially dangerous. If your pet consumes chocolate, it can be fatal. When your kid gets home from their annual trek around the neighborhood searching for goodies, put the candy somewhere eager dogs and curious cats cannot reach.
If you suspect your pet has consumed candy or any toxic substance, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 right away.
Make Sure Your Pet Is Visible
Since it becomes darker earlier in the evening when fall commences, it may be wise to walk your dog in the morning or afternoon to ensure visibility. However, if you walk your pup after work, chances are that means it is getting close to dark when you take them outside. If so, you may want to invest in a personalized reflective dog collar.
These collars will have your pet’s name and your phone number on them. This way, if you and your dog become separated, a good Samaritan is more likely to find them and know who to call to get them home safely. Your pet’s microchip should also be up to date. Keeping the contact information current is the best way to ensure your dog will be returned to you should they get lost and end up in a shelter.
Make Apple Orchard Outings Safe
Who can resist the juicy sweetness of a crisp, delicious apple? Fall is the season for picking apples, and while trips to the apple orchard are fun, it is important to make sure apples are safe for our furry friends to eat. The American Kennel Club states, “Since each apple has about 19 grams of sugar, a whole apple will likely be too much for your dog.” The parts of the apple that are toxic to pets:
Core- Stem
- Seeds
Never feed your pet these parts of the apple. Apple seeds contain amygdalin, a toxic chemical that releases cyanide when chewed and digested. The core and stem can be a choking hazard. Watch portion sizes. Too much apple can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea. Peel the apple and cut it into bite-size pieces.
Do Not Share Your Holiday Feast
Thanksgiving is the best time for family gatherings, and our pets love to be included in the festivities. However, do not share your holiday meal with them. Fatty meat can trigger pancreatitis, which can be fatal if not treated.
Turkey bones can cause choking and lead to a blockage, and stuffing that contains garlic and onions is unsafe. To include your dog or cat, feed them plain white turkey meat with no gravy. For dessert, plain canned pumpkin is not only safe but also nutritious.
Conclusion
The fall season offers many splendors to bask in but also dangers. Keep candy away from pets, make sure they are visible at night, and do not share holiday human foods. Autumn is a time of gratitude. Show your pets you are thankful for them by preserving their safety.
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