Fall Pet Safety Tips
It’s that time of year when the weather turns, the days are shorter, and there is a crisp feeling in the air. Along with the beauty of the season, fall also brings many familiar tasks, including preparing our yards for winter, cleaning the garage, and holiday decorating. Learn how to keep your furry friends safe and healthy during the fall season with these essential tips for fall pet safety.
Halloween Costumes, Candy & Decorations
Halloween is just around the corner. While costumes and treats may be fun for us, your furry little goblin may want to try some of these goodies or try to chew its costume. Unfortunately, this could result in a very sick pet or a situation requiring immediate medical intervention.
Pet Halloween Costumes
Not all pets enjoy wearing a costume. Make sure your pet is comfortable and watch for signs of anxiety. They should have no obstructions blocking their sight, no dangling objects they can swallow, make sure they can easily move around and not overheat.
Candy & Decorations that are harmful to pets:
- Candy and gum
- Chocolate
- Any treat containing Xylitol or other artificial sweeteners
- Marijuana edibles
- Alcohol
- Grapes, raisins, fatty foods
- Nuts
- Decorations
- String, electrical cords, lights
- Lighted candles
- Potpourri
Halloween is also one of the busiest times of the year for poison control hotlines and animal control services. Keep your pets safe by moving them to a room that is secure, comfortable, and quiet. Be sure your pets are microchipped and that your contact information is up to date. Keep all food items, treats, and trash containers up and out of your pets’ reach.
Lawn and Garden
When you are preparing your lawn and garden for fall and winter, be mindful of how your pets may be affected by the products you use. Use only pet friendly lawn additives and soil amenders. Avoid fertilizers and other products that contain chemicals that may be toxic to pets. Read the labels and follow any instructions pertaining to pets or other animals.
Flower bulbs, such as crocus, lilies, daffodils, and iris, are all plants that are poisonous to pets. Put away rakes and other sharp lawn tools so they don’t get stepped on by sensitive paws.
Uncovered compost piles contain food toxins, mold, potentially dangerous mushrooms, fungi, and other risky items. Keep compost in a contained space that is inaccessible to your pets and other animals.
Antifreeze and Other Toxins
Fall is a time for winterizing our motor vehicles, including, oil changes and adding antifreeze. These products are highly toxic to pets. Be sure to clean up any spills and secure lids tightly on containers and bottles. Put these products away on a high shelf or in a cabinet that can’t be opened by a pet.
Always securely cover and store these other potential poisons:
- Insecticides
- Paint and paint thinner
- Moth balls
- Mouse traps, rat traps and rodenticides (hazardous to all animals)
- Polishes
- Road salt
- Lawn and garden supplies
- Fertilizer
- Batteries
- Automotive chemicals
Final Thoughts
Any seasonal change can bring new hazards for our pets, from hot and cold weather to holidays and celebrations. With a little preparation, you can enjoy the wonders of fall while keeping your pets safe.
Don’t forget to keep your pet on a monthly parasite preventative. Parasites continue to cause harm, no matter what the season.
For more information on fall pet safety or to schedule an appointment for your pet, please contact us. We are here to help your pet have a healthy life with you!
