Keeping Pets Safe in Autumn

As the chill sets in, we must wave a sad goodbye to the summer. The beautiful Autumn season is upon us and this time of year is perfect for stunning woodland walks, cosy nights by the fire and lots of cuddles with your furry friend.

Along with all the beauty this season brings, there are some considerations for your dogs and cats.

Overeating in Autumn

Some pets lose their appetite during the hot weather, so you may have noticed your dog or cat eating a lot less during hot summer days.

As the weather gets colder, our furry friend’s hunger can get reignited and suddenly they are wolfing down every meal. This is a common experience for pet owners, ultimately the cooler the weather the more calories are needed for warmth.

However, it is important to still control your pet’s portions every day. With cats and dogs less likely to be walked or exercise as much in rainy weather, the increase in calories and decrease in activity is a recipe for weight gain.

Stiff and Sore Joints

Much like us, our furry friends can get stiffer joints during the colder weather. Pets with existing joint conditions may see a worsening of those symptoms during the autumn and winter months.

Protecting your pet’s joints is an important consideration once Autumn appears. Keeping dogs and cats warm and out of draughts in the home can help reduce some stiffness. Of course, supportive ingredients in their dinner, also go a long way in supporting their joints and wellbeing.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin are found in all our dry insect-powered foods. These protect, rebuild and support joint cartilage, keeping your furry friend fit and healthy.

Dangerous Plants, Nuts & Parasites

Our woodlands turn into crackling seas of amber, orange and red during the autumnal months. As the leaves fall, the beauty of nature certainly intensifies but some dangers are lurking in our woods, forests and even our gardens.

• Acorns
  These grow on oak trees and can typically be found on the ground through late September/early October. Acorns contain tannins which in certain quantities can be toxic to our canine companions, they also pose a choking risk.
  If you suspect your dog has ingested acorns, take them to the vet ASAP.
• Fallen Fruit
  Fruit such as cherries, apples and plums that have dropped off trees can pose a danger to our furry friends. Some dogs will be extremely tempted to eat them; however, these fruits can ferment resulting in a natural alcohol content and sometimes develop dangerous mould.
  Keep your pooch away from the base of fruit trees or on a shorter leash. Perhaps some delicious Yora Insect & Apple Rewards would be a welcome distraction?
• Conkers
  These come from horse chestnuts and unfortunately can pose a threat to dogs. Signs of conker poisoning can include vomiting, shaking/tremors, increased thirst, dribbling and reduced appetite. Conkers are also large and hard so pose a choking risk.
  If you suspect your dog has ingested conkers, contact your vet ASAP.
• Lungworm
  Owners should be aware of parasites all year round; however, dogs can be at a higher risk of Lungworm during the wetter months.
  Slugs and snails carry the infective lungworm larvae and during the damp wet seasons, they are increasingly found in our gardens. Dogs can accidentally eat slugs and snails while foraging in the undergrowth, playing with outside toys and drinking from outside water sources.
  This risk can be managed with regular worming treatments and vet visits.
• Wild Mushrooms
  Mushrooms will be found across woodlands and forests in darker, damper places. Several species of mushrooms are poisonous to our dogs and often to us.
  As it can be hard to identify which species are dangerous, it is worth keeping your pooch far away from any mushrooms.

In case of poisoning, it is worth every owner having the Animal Poison Line Number on hand. This is a 24-hour advice service from Veterinary poison specialists.

Darker Dog Walks

Sadly, alongside the picturesque scenery of autumn, there comes the darker evenings.

It is important to keep your dog on a tight leash during darker dog walks, as it can be easy for them to get lost. Invest in glow collars or LED walk wear to help keep your pooch visible. This is also the perfect time to check that their microchip information is up to date and that they have the correct information on their ID tag.

For our feline friends, the darker evenings can lead to more risk of road traffic accidents. To keep your kitty as safe as possible it is worth keeping them in during the darker hours.

We hope you have a wonderful autumn and get a chance to get cosy and cuddle up with your favourite furry friends

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