Stay Safe in Autumn
Sunny Autumn walks can be really nice, especially on a dry sunny day. However there are dangers for your dog at this time of year, some are obvious, but others you may not be aware of.
DONT EAT THAT!
Be mindful of your dog picking up autumn dangers and eating them, for example acorns contain tannins, which can be poisonous to dogs. These toxins can cause your dog to be sick or may upset their stomach.
If you dog is likely to eat items on the floor when out for a walk, a muzzle could be a good idea. Tannins are also found in the bark, wood, leaves, buds and fruits (acorns) of the oak tree. Conkers are also dangerous for dogs to eat containing toxin called aesculin. Large conkers could also become stuck in your dog’s throat and cause them to choke.
Toadstools, mushroom and fungi appear really suddenly at this time of year, some are safe, but some can make your dog quite ill if ingested and it can take a while before symptoms appear. If your dog eats an unknown fungi, contact the vet and if possible take a picture of the kind eaten or even a sample and look at the area it was growing. Paper bags are better to transport a fungi rather than a plastic bag of box as this can cause it to start to breakdown.
In your garden, clear away fallen fruits as these too contain toxins which could make your dog ill.
Fireworks
Fireworks can stress some dogs terribly, where as others don’t seem bothered at all. Reassurance and diversion tactics are worth a try and maybe some background music and a warm den to escape to. Check your garden each morning during firework season, for debris as these could contain harmful chemicals for your dog.
Halloween
Halloween can be a stressful time for some dogs, frequent knocks at the door, masks or costumes can scare them. Keep chocolate out of reach of your dog as it contains theobromine which is poisonous to dogs. Seek veterinary advice if you dog eats chocolate. The darker the chocolate the more theobromine it contains. Theobromine is a stimulant which could cause vomiting and an upset stomach, but at worse twitching and convulsions and heart issues.
Keep carved pumpkins and naked flames out of reach of you dog. We suggest you stay virulent and keep your dog away from, or heavily supervised around all things Halloween and well away from Fireworks!
Alabama Rot
Another issues which is more common in wet weather is Alabama Rot. It is rare but potentially a serious condition which is thought to develop from muddy conditions. Keep your dog away from muddy areas or wash them if they do get muddy and dry them thoroughly. Click the link to find out more, ALABAMA ROT (CRGV) – What’s it all About?
Do have a great Autumn, stay safe and remember to keep your dog away from danger. If you are worried about your dogs health seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.
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