blogAutumn may not seem like too hazardous or dangerous a season, but with temperatures dropping and strange new critters and creatures emerging, it’s safe to say that things are going to change a lot for our furry friends at home, too. For dogs, it’s a wonderful new time to explore smells and sights, and to start leaping through piles of leaves and the like!
However, there are a few things we should really be keeping in mind when it comes to walking and looking after our pets in the autumn. Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and therefore, we’re going to need to keep a particular eye out for them as the months progress!
Here are a few autumnal tips you should keep in mind when it comes to looking after dogs as September rolls on.
Look for Hidden Nasties
While autumn is likely to be a wonderful new playground for most dogs, the new leaves and fallen foliage are likely to be covering up all kinds of potential nastiness. For example, dogs may not necessarily know where they’re treading – beneath piles of leaves and branches, there could be sharp thorns or even a beastie or two that could cause your pet harm!
Therefore, be extra careful when it comes to monitoring your pup around big piles of leaves and the like. Otherwise, you might end up causing injury or harm to your pet when they’re just being playful.
Clue Up on Autumn Poisons
According to the PDSA, autumn can be a deadly season for dogs thanks to the sheer amount of droppage that is likely to poison them or make them poorly. For example, did you know that acorns and conkers are toxic to dogs? Therefore – you’d do best keeping them well away.
What’s more, there is also likely to be lots of antifreeze and other chemicals used at this time of year. Naturally, any dog licking up puddles of anti-freeze is likely to be feeling pretty grotty afterwards! Do also look out for blue-green algae, too, as this can be fatal to most pets if they swallow it. Keep an eye on your dogs around water during the autumn – plain and simple!
Be Wary of Fireworks and Bonfires
Naturally, autumn is the season when many people start buying fireworks in bulk and lighting bonfires. Many dogs are scared of the loud noises that fireworks can make, which means you’re going to need to be sure to create a calm, peaceful environment for them indoors.
What’s more, there are always likely to be potential hazards lying around when it comes to leftover fireworks and bonfire shedding. As they always say, never return to a firework even after it’s gone off – and the same goes for your pets.
You MUST keep your dogs indoors if you are hosting a fireworks evening of your own – and if you walk your dogs around communal areas where they are likely to have been let off, always ensure you keep a close eye out for stray rockets and sparklers which might be left lying around. Unfortunately, autumn is the season for all kinds of rubbish to be left strewn around, and for dogs, this can be particularly hazardous.
Enjoy Autumn!
Many dogs love autumn for the simple fact that it’s cooler, there are lots of new sights and smells, and that you’re more likely to take them for longer walks. However, there is also likely to be lots of noise – and lots of strewn hazards.
Therefore, take our advice – be wary when walking your pets, and always ensure you keep your dogs inder lockdown during firework celebrations. 
