Fall is officially here! This is a pretty popular time of year for our canine companions. After all, fall provides ideal weather for taking your furry best buddy for a walk in a beautiful park. However, as with any other season, autumn brings its own set of challenges for pet owners to consider. A local Haddon Township, NJ vet has listed some of them below.
Keep Up with Parasite Control
Many smaller pests will hibernate throughout the colder months, but we are not there yet. Fleas and ticks, and other critters also do not go peacefully. In fact, when the temperature cools, they will be more determined about going indoors. Do not stop your pet’s parasite protection! Continue to inspect Fido for ticks after he has been outside.
Watch Out For Wildlife
In the fall, many wild animals are preparing to hibernate for the colder months. Some are hoarding and gathering every bit of food they can. Many of these creatures may be a little crankier than usual. Be extremely cautious, especially if you are in a more remote region. If you have a fenced yard, bring Fido inside before nightfall, and keep an eye on him if you do let him out at night. When walking your dog, don’t let him sniff around areas where wild animals may be hiding, and don’t let him run about off-leash in the woods or fields.
Be Careful With Mushrooms
Some pets simply ignore mushrooms, which is of course going to be the best-case scenario here. Others, however, will be tempted to devour them. This can be very dangerous. Many mushrooms can be highly toxic. Some can even be fatal. If you’re walking your dog, don’t let him eat mushrooms. If you have a fenced yard, keep an eye out for mushrooms and gently remove and dispose of any you find.
Keep Your Canine Pal Nice And Cozy
Do not expect Fido’s fur coat will continue to keep him warm in the cold. It will help, but many dogs require more protection than this. If your pet has smooth, short fur, he may benefit from a jacket on chilly days. If your dog wears outerwear, ensure that all of his winter clothing is clean and in good shape. A warm, comfortable doggy bed (or two) is also essential.
Adjust Your Walking Routine
As the sun sets earlier in fall, you may find yourself walking your canine companion frequently after sundown. Wear light, reflective clothing. A light-up leash isn’t a terrible idea.
Make Fido’s Home-Alone Time Comfortable
Does your canine pal 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 leaving, as it may be dark when you arrive home. That way, your pet will not be left alone in a dark house. That’s no fun for anyone!
Reduce Exposure To Allergens
Fall may be a difficult–if not downright terrible–season for anyone with allergies. This time of year, there is generally a lot of pollen, dust, dander, mold, and mildew. This can bother both pets and people. Itching, runny eyes, respiratory troubles, skin problems, and sneezing are all warning symptoms to keep an eye out for. If you know or think that your furry friend has allergies, contact your veterinarian.
You can download a pollen tracker and keep track of the amounts. Limit Fido’s outdoor time while the level is high. You may also want to wipe down your pet’s paws and belly with a damp cloth before bringing him inside. That will remove pollen, dust, and dander from his fur. Regular vacuuming and dusting might also help.
Be Careful With Decorations
Autumn decorations give your home a unique seasonal and whimsical air. However, keep your dog’s safety in mind. Many of our four-legged pals like chewing on everything and everything they can. Anything small or sharp can pose a risk, as can anything long or stringy. This includes ropes, garlands, and the phony spiderwebs you hang on your front door. Items that move, light up, or create noise are also hazardous. These often require cords or batteries, neither of which are suitable for Fido to eat or chew on.
If your dog is a chewer, you’ll also want to avoid using decorations made of foam or plastic, which are not safe for him to consume. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Beware Of Arthritic Symptoms
Cold, damp weather can worsen issues for dogs with bone/joint problems like arthritis or hip dysplasia. If your furry bestie appears stiff and sore, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Many of these issues cannot be healed, but can be managed if addressed early on.
If Fido has arthritis, you may need to take a few extra precautions to keep him warm in cold weather. A good, comfy orthopedic bed will not only help your pet sleep better, but it will also keep him warm on chilly nights and will also protect him from cold flooring.
Winter can be particularly harsh on Fido’s furry feet. Snow, salt, sand, ice, and chemical de-icers can all result in painful burns and abrasions. Prepare for the chilly weather with pet-safe de-icers.
Ask your Haddon Township, NJ veterinarian for more information on caring for an arthritic puppy.
Schedule A Professional Grooming Session For Fido
If you’ve had your furry friend’s hair cut for the summer, now is the time to let it grow. You’ll also want to give Fido a wash before it gets cold. Schedule an appointment for Fido at his doggy salon.
Use Caution With Fire
Candles and fires can add a warm warmth to your house, but use them with caution. Fido may easily knock a candle from a coffee table with a pleased thud of his wagging tail. Keep candles in thick sconces and burn them in high places where pets cannot reach them.
If you use a fireplace or start a fire in a pit, be sure your pet doesn’t come too close. Use a sturdy grate over fireplaces, and ensure that pits are arranged so your pet cannot fall or wander into the fire.
Keep Up With Grooming
Fall is a peak grooming season for our canine pets. As Fido swaps his summer wardrobe out for heavier fur, you may notice pet hair everywhere. You may need to brush him more frequently than usual at this time of year. (Tip: Take your dog outside for these sessions. The excess fur will simply blow away instead of getting all over everything.)
Enjoy Long Walks with Fido
Finally, make the most of the current weather. Bring your adorable pet to a beautiful park or explore a new trail with him. This is an excellent opportunity to catch up with friends who have their own dogs. Grab some coffee and enjoy the gorgeous weather!
Book An Appointment At Our Haddon Township, NJ Pet Clinic
Does your canine companion need to come in? Is Fido due for a checkup, vaccines, or parasite control? Please feel free to contact us at your Haddon Township, NJ pet hospital. We are dedicated to providing exceptional veterinarian treatment and customer service.
