Similar to another season, there are Autumn risks for canines that fur dad and mom must look out for.
Not solely does the chilly, crisp climate can convey colds to our pets (sure, canines and cats catch colds too!), however there are additionally many issues related to the autumn season that may probably convey them hurt.
Simply as we put together our thick, fuzzy blankets, heat jackets and sweaters, and apple ciders, we must also put together autumn security measures to guard our canines from any attainable menace to their well being.
On this article, we listed down all of the attainable risks to our canines this Autumn season, from the obvious to probably the most stunning and surprising ones!
Autumn Risks for Canine: What Are They?
The beginning of the chilly season throughout autumn may cause hurt to our canines if we aren’t vigilant sufficient.
Aside from the toxins and allergens which can be current throughout the fall season, quite a lot of wild animals, even the small and seemingly innocent ones are additionally on excessive alert throughout this time of the yr.
Not solely do they bring about the form of menace you are most likely considering of proper now, however they will additionally trigger an infection or illnesses that may be handed alongside to canines.
The issues we use inside the home to maintain us heat and cozy might also be harmful round our pets, particularly if they don’t seem to be attended to.
Attainable Autumn Risks for Canine
Try our complete listing of 19 attainable autumn risks for canines that may both occur to them attributable to the change in season or by the issues which will simply be inside your own home or in your yard!
Darker and Longer Nights
Though canines typically have a very good sense of course, you will nonetheless by no means know what is perhaps lurking within the background whereas having fun with your early mornings or nightly walks.
Lots of accidents occur in the dead of night—you will simply by no means make certain what may occur!
Be sure that to decorate your canine in acceptable outfits (reflective vests, LED harnesses, or LED canine collars) to simply spot him.
If he has a microchip, be sure that it is also up to date with all of your info in case he will get misplaced in the dead of night.
Seasonal Allergic reactions
Though summertime is probably the most itch-fest season of the yr, autumn additionally has its personal fair proportion of allergens for canines.
Mould, pollen, ragweed, mud, and grass are among the frequent culprits of fall allergic reactions in canines.
In case your canine immediately develops rashes and is scratching excessively, sneezing, or has watery eyes and nostril discharge, ask your vet to know what is perhaps the set off and how you can deal with it.
Don’t fret an excessive amount of, although, as allergic reactions in canines are fairly manageable.
Seasonal Canine Sickness (SCI)
This uncommon sickness is taken into account a thriller even to consultants as a result of nobody is aware of what causes it precisely, besides that it at all times occurs throughout the fall season.
It is also linked to woodland areas, the place canines begin exhibiting signs 24 to 72 hours after strolling in woodland.
Some notable indicators of Seasonal Canine Sickness are vomiting, diarrhea, and basic tiredness.
Nonetheless, there are quite a lot of situations which will trigger these signs so visiting your veterinarian is a should for a correct analysis.
That is vital as a result of SCI could be fairly harmful if not instantly taken care of. There are identified instances of canines that did not survive due to this.
Fortunately, in keeping with the analysis performed by Animal Well being Belief, there was a decline in SCI instances since 2010. However nonetheless, we will by no means be too positive!
Alabama Rot
One other uncommon however probably life-threatening illness is Alabama Rot.
Similar to the SCI, nobody additionally is aware of the reason for Alabama Rot nevertheless it’s primarily related to strolling in muddy locations.
Signs first seem as marks, sores, or ulcers on the legs and paws. If untreated, it might later trigger issues with blood vessels within the pores and skin and kidneys.
If it is too inconceivable to maintain your canine away from muddy areas, simply be sure that to clean and dry them completely after their muddy session.
Acorns, Fallen Fruits, and Leaves
Any fallen issues on the bottom could seem innocent to start with, however in reality, they could comprise substances which can be extremely poisonous for canines.
Acorns, for instance. They comprise tannins which will trigger an upset abdomen and finally, might trigger kidney and liver failure. ‘
Simply watch out for inexperienced acorns as they’ve extra tannins than brown ones!
Bushes additionally begin dropping their fruits throughout this season, and if eaten by our pets, fermented and moldy fallen fruits may also trigger discomfort.
Additionally, fruit seeds, pips, and fruit stones additionally comprise toxins that make canines sick.
Whereas it is cute seeing our canines taking part in on a pile of dried leaves, fallen leaves additionally develop molds and micro organism that, when ingested, can result in severe gastrointestinal issues in canines.
Conkers/ Horse Chestnut Tree
One other frequent seed throughout autumn is Conker, a tough nut-like seed from the horse chestnut tree.
They’re notably dangerous for canines due to the poison they comprise (even the leaves from the tree!) referred to as aesculin. In uncommon instances, it may be lethal too.
Signs of conker poisoning might embody vomiting with blood, diarrhea, drooling, tummy ache, elevated thirst, and diminished urge for food.
Not solely that, however conkers are additionally massive and arduous and should trigger your canine to choke, or block his abdomen and intestine.
Wild Mushrooms, Toadstools, Fungi
Whereas there are many mushrooms which can be typically fit for human consumption for canines and people, wild mushrooms, toadstools, and any suspicious fungi that you simply see in your walks ought to be averted in any respect prices.
Whereas some poisonous mushrooms can solely trigger upset stomachs at most, there are different kinds that might be toxic and take impact in days, weeks, or immediately.
In case your canine by chance ingests one, take her instantly to the veterinarian. Preserve a transparent thoughts and do not panic!
Take a photograph of the mushroom and pay attention to the surroundings the place it is rising.
This can assist the consultants establish what sort of mushroom has been eaten and how you can deal with it instantly.
Fleas, Ticks, Parasites
These parasites are a year-round drawback for many canines and their homeowners, however fleas and ticks are literally extra lively throughout autumn. (Sure, they do not die in chilly climate similar to we thought!)
It is attainable to select up these undesirable hitchhikers in your outside walks from different animals. Or generally, they will simply be hiding within the fallen leaves, who is aware of!
Aside from inflicting relentless scratching, fleas and ticks may also be the transporter of various illnesses. That is why it is vital to ensure your canine is freed from them as soon as you bought house!
Try our article on The Final Canine Fleas and Ticks Survival Information.
Wildlife
Wild animals are additionally busy making ready for the chilly climate so they’re often on heightened alert throughout this season.
Watch out in your hikes as you could encounter some wild animals like snakes that would probably understand your intrusion as a menace. Their venomous chew is equally deadly for canines and people alike.
However you should not solely be cautious of huge animals, because the smaller ones may also be harmful too. ‘[
Not only that they can get aggressive, but they may also be carriers of different diseases.
Just always be aware of the native animals in your area.
Fireworks and Sparklers
Autumn season is also a time for celebration, and with that comes the fireworks and sparklers.
But be wary especially if you have a dog in the family—they’ll definitely get stressed with all the noise, especially with their super hearing ability!
Not only that but spent fireworks and sparklers also contain dangerous chemicals that if left lying around dogs, can cause breathing problems, blood in stool, and tummy pain among others.
Glow Sticks and Luminous Bracelets
Unlike fireworks and sparklers, glow sticks and luminous bracelets can be quite attractive to our pets. They’re pretty and colorful but without the noise!
However, the liquid inside that makes them glow is irritant and toxic both for pets and humans. It can cause stomach aches and froth in the mouth if ingested.
Halloween Horrors
Don’t get us wrong, our pets can certainly join in on the fun too in this spooky holiday. But there are elements in our Halloween celebration that might just be too distressing for them.
Case in point, those spooky Halloween costumes, noisy trick-or-treaters, and house decorations.
Those small figurines or creepy details you put out could be a choking hazard for them.
Plus, Halloween can also mean gatherings and strange visitors. For unsocialized pups, this could mean horror!
And don’t forget the Halloween treats, too. While we can enjoy them as much as we want, chocolates, sweets, raisins, and other candies are a no-no for dogs.
Chocolates contain theobromine which is absolutely poisonous for them, sweets have xylitol (another toxic substance) and raisins and grapes have a still unknown toxin.
Planting Spring Bulbs and Other Decorative Plants
Maintaining a beautiful garden can be one way of coping with stress, but make sure that what you’re planting is actually safe for dogs!
Spring bulbs (especially of Daffodils, Tulips, and Crocus) have concentrated allergens and toxins that may be harmful to them.
At the same time, autumn flowering plants like Chrysanthemum and Cyclamens can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and death when accidentally ingested.
Rat and Mouse Poison
You’re probably doubling up these measures, especially since Mickey and his friends may be inviting themselves to your house unpermitted because of the cold season.
However, be careful as rodenticides can also be attractive to your dog, too.
Always make sure that you put these pesticides in places where your pet can’t reach them to avoid any accidents from happening.
Antifreeze
During the cold weather, you can’t forget about maintaining your car.
But some chemicals that we’re using are highly toxic to our dogs. (And by highly toxic, we mean instant death!)
Antifreeze, for example, is actually sweet and palatable for our dogs. However, just a small amount of it can cause serious kidney damage.
Your dog will probably appear “drunk” right after drinking it before the worst thing can happen.
Mothballs
As you unpacked your blankets and sweater-weather clothes, make sure that there are no stray mothballs lying around the house for your dog to find.
Mothballs contain a high concentration of insecticides. If ingested, it can cause anemia, vomiting, lethargy, and liver and kidney damage.
They can also be choking hazards if swallowed.
Candle
Lighting candles can be relaxing and decorative too during this time of the year. But keeping one burning unsupervised is dangerous when you have a curious pup around.
Not only your dog can hurt himself, but he can also accidentally knock it down and burn the house. You can just never be sure, you know.
Also, some candles release carcinogens and toxins while burning. They’re also potential dangers for your pooch even only when inhaled.
Heater
The same goes with any kind of heater you have in the house during autumn, your dog can hurt himself when he gets too close to it.
Fireplaces or space heaters should always be covered to prevent any over-excited pooch from burning itself.
Joint Pain
Dogs, especially senior ones, can also experience joint pains when it’s chilly outside. Make sure they are warm and comfortable enough to prevent any joint pains from happening.
Autumn Safety Tips for Dogs
Just by reading the possible autumn dangers for dogs above, you probably already got a clear picture of how to keep your precious pooch safe from harm.
But just a quick rundown, here are 10 tips to keep them safe this chilly season.
- Keep your dog warm
- Make sure your dog can be seen all the time
- Preventative care is important!
- Steer clear from antifreeze, rodenticides, and any other toxic materials for dogs
- Be careful with holiday treats
- Watch out for the Halloween horrors!
- Get your pet microchipped
- Keep an eye out for wildlife
- Consider joint supplements
- Just cuddle with them on the couch!
FAQs on Autumn Dangers for Dogs
Do dogs like fall weather?
Actually, they do! Dogs like fall weather not only because of the fun activities they can do but because they can also regulate their body temperature better in cold than in the hot seasons.
Cooler temperatures are definitely one of the reasons why dogs love the fall weather.
Can change in weather make dogs sick?
Regardless of how much they love the cool temperature, a change in weather can also make dogs sick.
Their respiratory system plays a big role in keeping them warm so when the weather gets too cold, it can constrict (just like in us humans!) Infections can create symptoms like a cold, such as sneezing and nose congestion.
Also, just like what we have discussed above, there are several mysterious illnesses dogs can get during autumn (like the SCI and Alabama Rot.)
How cold is too cold for dogs?
Dogs can generally regulate their body heat (also thanks to their fur!) but extremely low temperatures can be too cold for dogs, too.
45° F or 7° C may be unsafe for small to medium size dogs with thin coats, but large breeds with heavier, double coats should be okay.
However, if the weather further dropped to 32° F or 0° C, you should already pay close attention to their well-being, especially pups, senior dogs, or dogs with preexisting conditions.
Autumn Dangers for Dogs – Final Thoughts
Autumn dangers for dogs are ever-present, as they do in other seasons too!
But this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t let your pup enjoy this fall weather. You just gotta be extra cautious to make sure that no harm will fall on your furry little friend.
There are, after all, available autumn safety tips for dogs that can help you take care of them.
And if you want your pooch cozy and safe, why not just enjoy a movie marathon featuring dogs in Halloween movies? Check out our movie recommendations below for your binge-watching session this spooky season.
READ NEXT: Dogs in Halloween Movies (Scariest and Most Adorable Ones!)
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