12 Autumn Hazards for Dogs

Autumn is upon us, which means we’re in store for cooler weather, fireworks, and various festivities. While some of the things that come along with autumn are welcomed, they can also pose risks to our canine companions. It’s important to still make sure they’re getting out and exercising to maintain their healthy weight, but we must also take extra precautions while doing so to keep them safe. This article covers the top autumn hazards for all dog owners to be aware of.

1. Conkers and acorns

Fallen conkers and acorns are key signifiers that autumn has arrived, but did you know they can cause harm to your dog? Conkers contain a toxin known as aesculin, which can cause sickness in dogs. The severity of this often depends on how much of the toxin is ingested. Due to their size, conkers are also a choking hazard and may cause internal blockages when swallowed. While dogs may find them fun to carry around, it’s best to replace this with a safer option, like a ball

Acorns contain a different type of toxin called tannic acid, which can also cause an upset stomach in dogs. This can become more serious and impact internal organs like the kidneys and liver if eaten frequently or in high quantities. The highest levels of tannic acid are typically found in green acorns, although brown acorns do still contain it. Additionally, like conkers, acorns can also cause internal blockages. 

2. Wild mushrooms

Mushrooms are tricky because some are edible, while others are extremely toxic. This applies to both humans and dogs, but dogs are of course much more likely to indiscriminately eat random toadstools they come across on walks. It can be difficult to discern which wild mushrooms are safe and which are poisonous, even for experts. Their effects can range from harmless to life-threatening, depending on the type. Due to this, it’s always safest to keep your dogs away from all wild mushrooms, even if you think they may be safe to eat. 

If your dog does ingest a wild mushroom, it’s important to take them to the vet immediately, even if no reaction occurs. This is because some mushrooms can cause delayed effects. To help the vet properly assess and treat your pet, any information you can provide about the mushroom they ingested will be welcomed. This may include where it was growing, images, or even a sample of the mushroom. 

3. Antifreeze and rock salt

As colder weather approaches, more car owners will be using antifreeze in their cars, and rock salt will be appearing on the roads. Antifreeze, unfortunately, tastes and smells attractive to some dogs and can appear as an innocent puddle on the ground. Many dogs like to drink from puddles as a quick refresher on their walks, but the potential for an antifreeze leak or spill makes this very dangerous. It’s toxic if ingested and can lead to serious complications, including kidney failure. In some cases, it can be fatal.

Rock salt used to grit roads can also cause serious issues if ingested, such as liver failure and dehydration. Therefore, it’s important to be extra vigilant around roads and parked cars. If you think your dog has ingested any antifreeze or rock salt, contact your vet for advice. As an extra precaution, it’s a good idea to wipe your dog’s paws and any other part of their body that touches the ground after walks to remove possible antifreeze and rock salt residue.

4. Fireworks 

Most dogs are not fans of fireworks displays, such as those that occur on Bonfire Night here in the UK. They don’t understand where the loud noises are coming from or why they’re happening, which can be very distressing, especially with their highly sensitive ears. Watching TV or listening to the radio can help reduce their effect by distracting your dog. For additional positive stimulation, healthy chews that keep their attention may help soothe them.

Other pet-safe calming products are also available. We advise speaking to your vet before giving any ingestible calming products to your dog. This is especially important if your dog takes any regular medications or has a health condition. 

Unfortunately, dogs are still not always safe from fireworks even when the display is over. Used or discarded fireworks still contain chemicals that put your dog at risk of illness. Ingesting these chemicals can cause a range of symptoms, from an upset stomach to liver and kidney problems, among various others. This is why it’s important to check any outdoor spaces, including those on your own property, for remnants of fireworks after a display in your area. 

5. Slugs and snails

Slugs and snails are thought of as harmless creatures, but curious pups may find different results. This is because some slugs and snails carry a type of parasitic worm called lungworm, which can be fatal to dogs if left untreated. Luckily, there are preventative worming treatments that work to protect dogs against lungworm. However, even if your dog is protected by one of these treatments, it’s always safest to ensure they steer clear of licking or ingesting any slugs or snails you encounter on your walks. 

6. Fallen fruits

As autumn weather sets in, trees take this as their cue to begin dropping their fruits. Some of these fruits, as well as their seeds or stones, can be dangerous to dogs when ingested. This can become even more dangerous if the fruits are growing mould. Depending on how long the fallen fruits have been on the ground, they may also begin to ferment, which is not good news for your dog’s tummy if ingested. If you want to give your dog a healthy fruity snack, make sure to do so at home with clean fruits that are known to be safe for canine consumption. 

7. Fleas, ticks, and mites

Between harvest mites, fleas, and ticks, there are plenty of little critters that would love to attach themselves to your furry friend. Cooler weather prompts fleas to make their way into warmer environments, such as your dog’s fur, to lay their eggs and feed. There are preventative measures that you can take to avoid this, such as regular flea treatments.

It’s also worth carefully choosing your walking routes. For example, heavily wooded and grassy areas may be a fun place to take your dog, but they’re also home to harvest mites and ticks which can cause various issues. Harvest mites may lead to an uncomfortable and itchy reaction, with some dogs being more sensitive to them than others. Ticks can carry harmful diseases, so avoiding them where possible and properly removing them from your dog as soon as you can is important. 

It’s nearly impossible to avoid the natural homes of all of these critters while still providing an enriching walking experience for your dog. However, taking all the precautions you can and closely inspecting their bodies for invaders after walks can help keep your dog safe from the effects of harmful pests. 

8. Rodent poison

Speaking of pests, rodent infestations in homes spike in autumn as the weather begins to get cooler. This results in rat and mouse poison being used to get rid of them. These poisons work by attracting rodents with their smell and taste. Unfortunately, this means dogs may find them attractive, too. If your home or any other home you enter with your dog contains these poisons, it’s crucial that your dog is not able to access them. If you believe they have ingested any poison, contacting your vet immediately is the best course of action. 

9. Halloween

Spooky season isn’t just scary for us, it can give your dogs the heebeegeebees as well! Large Halloween decorations or those that produce sudden sounds or movements can become very distressing to dogs. The same goes for all the little humans running around in costumes and knocking on the door all of a sudden. In addition to the visual confusion, the influx of discarded sweets and chocolates and their wrappers pose a health risk for dogs. Make sure to keep a close eye on what they’re sniffing and munching on walks to avoid any ingestion of harmful ingredients. It’s also important to ensure they can’t access any Halloween treats you may have in your home. 

10. Hidden dangers in leaf piles

Leaf piles are tempting to jump into, even for us humans at times. However, it’s hard to know what may be lurking within them. Natural hazards, such as sharp sticks, ticks, and mould may be hiding beneath the surface. Additionally, man-made dangers like broken glass and cigarette butts may also be present. Unless you are absolutely certain that a leaf pile is safe for your dog to roll in (i.e. it may be freshly fallen on your property with very little to no chance of natural or man-made hazards), they are best avoided where possible. 

11. Low visibility

As dusk and darkness begin to appear earlier and earlier, you may find yourself walking your dog at times with low visibility. This can become dangerous if you’re walking them near roads or if you let them off-lead without any way to track their whereabouts. Luckily, there are lots of dog-friendly high visibility options, such as light up collars and reflective harnesses.

Using these for darker walks means you can still give them the freedom to run around (in safe, road-free environments) without worrying about being able to keep a close eye on them. However, when it becomes especially dark or if you walk your dog late at night, the safest option is to keep them on the lead as much as possible to avoid them getting lost. 

12. Cold weather 

Just like us, dogs are sensitive to the temperature dropping. Of course, those with longer and thicker coats will feel less of these effects than those with short coats. Older dogs are also more susceptible to the effects of cold weather. There are plenty of ways to keep your dog warm, such as dog-friendly attire like coats and jumpers. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that they’re clean and dry when they return from walks, and have a cosy place to rest. Offering plenty of blankets and a warm environment will go a long way to keep them toasty in these cooler months.

Final thoughts

Our dogs are like our babies and we want to do whatever we can to keep them safe. This list may feel a bit overwhelming, but the key to most of these points is keeping a close eye on your dog and what they’re ingesting, and providing them with a safe and warm environment. These are things you’re likely already doing year-round, so don’t fret about drastically changing your lifestyle or routine.

Knowing these potential hazards gives you the preparation you need to prevent them from impacting your dog. You’ll also know when and how to take appropriate action if any accidental mishaps do occur. Now you can comfortably enjoy your safe and fun walkies with your cute canine companion!

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