Fall is one of the most exciting times of year to enjoy the outdoors with your pets. Cooler temperatures make walks more comfortable, the colors of the leaves are beautiful, and most importantly—dogs love having a whole new group of smells to investigate!
But before you let your dog jump headfirst into that giant pile of leaves, you may want to pause and take a closer look. Autumn can bring some outdoor hazards for pets that aren't always obvious.
Moldy Leaves: More Than Just a Something to Rake
Damp piles of leaves can produce fungus and mold as they break down. Some of these molds may produce toxins that may make pets ill if they eat or ingest decomposing leaves or other decaying material.
Most dogs are tempted by smells, so digging in to sniff those leaves is very hard to resist! Observe your pet during walks and avoid letting them eat large amounts of leaves or other decaying vegetation. It may be wise to even wipe them down after the walk with a moist cleansing wipe to remove any mold that may be clinging to their coat.
Be Cautious of Wild Mushrooms
Mushrooms seem to pop up overnight in the fall, especially after a few rainy days. While most are harmless, some wild mushrooms can be poisonous to pets and may cause serious illness.
Even a trained eye can't always tell which mushrooms are dangerous just by looking at them. If you spot mushrooms growing in your yard, try to remove them. Or limit access to spots where wild fungi are growing.
Fleas & Ticks aren’t Gone Yet!
You don’t want to pack away your pet’s flea and tick prevention just because summer has ended. Many pet parasites remain active during the fall. In fact, it may take several hard freezes to eradicate all the fleas and ticks in your area. Your pets can still pick up these pests while walking through grass, brush, wooded areas, and leaf litter.
Following any outdoor adventures, check your pet's coat, ears, paws, and other areas where ticks like to hide. If you’d like help choosing the best flea and tick prevention products,stop by our store and talk with us! We're happy to help you explore your options and find a solution that works for you and your pet.
“Sparky! What’s That in Your Mouth!?”
For our pets, Autumn brings lots of tempting “tid-bits” to the ground—acorns, nuts, fallen fruit, and other plants. Decaying fruits and nuts may cause nasty tummy upsets and small pieces could even become choking hazards.
Try to keep an eye on what your dog is sniffing during walks. Dog’s noses may be excellent at finding interesting things, but they won’t always know what's safe to eat!
Beware of Outdoor Chemicals
Autumn is also a time when homeowners might use lawn treatments, fertilizers, rodent bait, or other products around their homes. Do your best to avoid chemically treated areas on your walks. Be sure to safely store any chemicals used on your own property where your pets can’t access them.
Enjoy the Beauty of Fall —Just Keep an Eye on What's Underfoot
It’s not necessary to spend your autumn worrying about every leaf, mushroom, or acorn your pet may encounter. Just be aware that some things may not be safe and it’s best to keep an eye on those curious canine noses.
With a little extra attention, you can help keep fall adventures fun, healthy, and safe. So grab the leash and sweater, enjoy the cooler weather, and let your pet explore—just be sure they aren’t eating the scenery! 🙂
