Autumn is a beautiful season filled with colourful foliage, crisp air, and cozy sweaters. While it brings delightful changes to our environment, it also presents unique challenges for our furry friends. To ensure the safety and well-being of your pets during this season, consider these autumn pet safety tips.

1. Watch Out for Toxic Plants and Mushrooms

As leaves fall and mushrooms sprout, it’s essential to keep a close eye on what your pets may ingest. Some plants and mushrooms can be toxic to dogs and cats. Be aware of common toxic varieties in your area and remove them from your yard if possible. If you’re unsure, consult your veterinarian.

2. Watch Out for Tiny Ticks

Ticks remain active even as the weather begins to cool. In fact, fall is when adult blacklegged ticks are most active as they thrive in cooler temperatures. Ticks can carry bacteria, viruses, and most notably, Lyme Disease. Talk to your veterinarian about tick prevention for your pet. You can also book a wellness appointment through our Public Veterinary Service clinic.  We offer prevention medications that cover all ticks found in Ontario.    

For more information on ticks and tick prevention, visit our website. You can also visit Tick Talk Canada or Pets and Ticks for all tick-related information.     

3. Be Cautious with Seasonal Decorations

Autumn often invites decorative gourds, corn stalks, and Halloween decorations. While they add charm to your home, they can pose dangers to your pets. Pets may chew on or ingest these items, potentially leading to gastrointestinal issues. Keep decorations out of reach and opt for pet-friendly alternatives. 

4. Keep Your Pet Warm

As temperatures drop, make sure your pets stay warm and comfortable. Consider providing cozy bedding, warm blankets, or even a heated pet pad for outdoor pets. Also, remember that short-haired breeds may need sweaters or coats for outdoor activities. 

5. Watch for Wildlife Encounters

Autumn is a time when wildlife, such as squirrels and raccoons, become more active. Keep an eye on your pets when they’re outdoors to prevent encounters that could lead to injuries or the transmission of diseases. 

6. Be Mindful of Allergies

Just like people, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies. If you notice signs such as excessive itching, scratching, chewing at feet, and rubbing their face, consult your veterinarian for guidance and potential treatment options. 

7. Prepare for Halloween

Halloween is a fun but potentially stressful time for pets. Keep these tips in mind: 

• Secure candy and chocolate out of reach, as these can be toxic to pets. 
• Keep pets away from lit candles in jack-o’-lanterns or decorations. 
• Consider the comfort and safety of your pets when choosing costumes; ensure they don’t restrict movement or cause anxiety. 

8. Regularly Brush Your Pet

Some dogs and cats may shed their coats during the fall in preparation for the cooler months of winter. During this time, avoid any furballs from forming on your couch and other furniture around your home by regularly brushing your pet.  

Not only will brushing your pet regularly help keep your home fur-free, but it will also make your pet feel great, avoid tangled fur, and help the two of you bond. Reward your furry one for good behaviour during grooming sessions with a tasty treat to positively reinforce the experience. 

9. Book Your Wellness Appointment at Toronto Humane Society

Autumn is an excellent time to ensure that your pets are up to date on vaccinations and preventative medications for fleas and ticks. Toronto Humane Society’s Public Veterinary Services clinic has wellness appointments available for vaccinations, preventative medications for fleas, ticks, and heartworm, and microchipping. Click here to create your account and book your appointment.