Learn how to ensure pet safety – 5 must-know fall safety tips for pet parents
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Fall brings new experiences for both pets and pet parents. While this season is filled with excitement and outdoor adventures, it offers your furry companions unique challenges and safety considerations. From navigating the changing weather to addressing safety hazards, this article highlights safety tips for pet parents.
Ensure Your Pet Stays Warm
- Temperature can drop rapidly during the fall, depending on your location. Sunny days can make the weather appear warmer than it is. Like humans, pets feel the cold. Consider bringing them indoors during the cooler mornings and evenings to keep their body temperature comfortable. In addition, allow their winter coat to grow back naturally as it provides insulation to help them stay warm.
Preventative Care Throughout the Year
- The fallen leaves of autumn provide an exciting environment for pets to play. However, they also serve as ideal hiding spots for ticks. It’s important to remember that parasites like ticks don’t simply disappear when the temperature drops. Ticks can thrive year-round, emphasizing the importance of consistent preventative care to protect your pet from their bites and the diseases they can transmit.
Therefore, staying up to date with their preventative treatments is crucial to ensure your pet’s well-being. Additionally, regularly inspect them for ticks whenever they come indoors. You can help keep your furry companion safe and healthy during every season by proactively preventing parasites.
Caution with Rodenticides and Toxins
- As temperatures drop, the use of rodenticides increases as rodents seek shelter indoors. These substances can be extremely toxic to pets and have fatal consequences if ingested. If you must use rodenticides, place them in areas your pets cannot reach.
Additionally, people commonly replace their car’s engine coolant during fall. It’s important to note that ethylene glycol-based coolants are highly toxic, and any spills should be promptly cleaned. Consider switching to propylene glycol-based coolants, as they are less toxic compared to other engine coolants, although not entirely nontoxic.
Limit Holiday Treats
- While fall is a time of tempting treats, it’s crucial to be mindful of your furry friends’ health. Many of these treats are not safe for pets. For instance, while pumpkin is a fall favorite, many store-bought pies contain artificial sweeteners and other ingredients that can pose risks to pets.
Corn on the cob can also be problematic, potentially causing gastrointestinal problems or blockage if ingested too hastily. Halloween candies often contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which can be fatal even in small amounts. It’s best to stick to their regular diet and keep treats out of their reach to keep your pets safe.
Consider Joint Supplements
Chilly weather can exacerbate certain health conditions, particularly arthritis, a common concern among older pets. As the cold sets in, the discomfort associated with arthritis can increase, affecting your pets’ mobility and overall well-being. Watch out for signs like limping or a reluctance to engage in physical activity, as these may signal increased discomfort from arthritis.
In addition, your veterinarian may recommend glucosamine supplements to alleviate your pet’s discomfort. These supplements have a proven track record of reducing inflammation around the joints, making movement easier and less painful for your furry companion. These joint supplements can enhance their quality of life, allowing pets to move more comfortably throughout the colder months.
If your pet has health concerns, contact Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center. We provide comprehensive pet care and strategies to promote optimal pet health. Contact us to get precise guidelines for your pet. We are located in Charlottesville, VA. Appointments are conveniently available. Call us at (434) 971-9800.
