Keeping your pets safe this autumn

Autumn: the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, not to mention dark nights, and fireworks, and Halloween.

This time of year brings a number of new challenges for pets and their owners, and it’s important to be aware of the seasonal hazards so that you can all continue to enjoy time outdoors.

Exercise

With the weather getting cooler, it’s tempting to spend more time indoors — but it’s important to keep up with your dog’s daily walks. This will help to prevent any weight gain and keep them fit and healthy, and also stop your dog from getting bored.

Your cat may go outside less on cold and wet days, so make sure you play with them to keep them active in the house.

Autumn plants

Seeds and leaves are starting to drop, but some are poisonous to pets and can cause serious illness.

For instance, yew trees are poisonous to all species and eating just a small amount of the leaves, berries or bark can be extremely harmful.

Similarly, the bark, leaves, flowers and conkers of horse chestnut trees are poisonous to pets. And conkers, as well as acorns, can become a choking hazard or cause blockages when eaten by pets.

Fallen Leaves & Rotten Fruit

Leaves left long enough will eventually turn to leaf mold and, like any decomposing organic matter, may contain dangerous mycotoxins.

Fallen fruits such as apples, pears and plums eventually ferment naturally on the ground so may contain poisonous ethanol.

Safety on walks

As the days get shorter, if you are walking your dog early in the morning or late at night make sure you wear reflective clothing — and think about getting a reflective collar and coat for your dog, just in case they get lost.

Fleas and ticks

Central heating makes a comfortable environment for fleas, so keep up with your pet’s flea treatment to help prevent any unwanted house guests at this time of year. And check your pets regularly for ticks, especially after dog walks, as ticks are still prominent in the autumn.

Fireplaces and candles

Cosy fireplaces and candles may look pretty but can be dangerous for curious cats- so ensure that you never leave your cat unattended with either.

Halloween

Although pumpkins are not poisonous, they could lead to your pet having a sensitive tummy if consumed in large quantities. Also, if you use candles in your pumpkins, make sure these are out of reach from your pet and can’t be knocked over.

Don’t dress your pet in a Halloween costume if they seem anxious. And keep them secure in one room to prevent any stress from visitors and to stop them dashing out of the door.

Bonfires and burns

Cats may mistake unlit bonfires for a cosy place to sleep, curling up in the comfortable protection that the make-shift shelter provides. Ensure you thoroughly check bonfires are free of animals and wildlife before lighting.

Fireworks

The fireworks season can last from October to New Year. To help reduce stress for your pet, make a den for them to retreat to during the fireworks and close curtains and play music to help block out the noise.

Natural pet remedies and plug-in diffusers are also available to help your pet deal with stressful situations.

Insurance from Purely Pets offers year-round protection for dogs, cats and multi-pet households. We offer 15 levels of Lifetime Cover — allowing you to choose the policy that suits your budget and requirements. Why not get a quote today from Purely Pets?

Top Tips This Autumn

Stay Bright

Whilst walking your dog at night, consider reflective or glow in the dark leads and collars. Perhaps take a small torch to ensure you and your dog are seen by drivers.
If your cat is outdoors during dark nights and mornings, ensure they have a reflective or LED collar on.

Flea treatment

Ensure your cat or dog has up to date flea treatment administered as fleas can thrive indoors when we start to heat our homes in autumn.

Chemicals

Always use a pet safe product if you are attempting to get rid of vermin.

Keep Calm

In the lead up to and during firework night, walk your dog early and ensure they have a safe space to hide. Drown out noise by drawing your curtains, have music playing or having the television on.

Consider keeping your cat indoors as it gets dark. Lock all windows and cat flaps, and ensure they have a safe space to hide.

Source: Vetsnow