When the weather changes and everything becomes pumpkin-spiced, there are some different dangers for your pets than during other times of the year. The Wichita veterinarians at Cimarron Animal Hospital have some tips for keeping your pets safe during the fall season.
Backyard Safety Tips for the Fall
New seasons mean new growth in gardens and in yards. Fruit trees can be toxic to animals and the pits can be a choking hazard. Plants and blooming flowers such as clematis, crocus and chrysanthemum are poisonous if ingested. There are some variations of mushrooms, such as the death cap, that are deadly to animals. Therefore, we recommend removing yard mushrooms before your pet has a chance to encounter them. Acorns, which contain tannic acid, is also toxic and can cause kidney and liver damage, and can cause intestinal blockages. In addition, piles of leaves can make an animal sick with gastrointestinal issues if there is mold or bacteria present. Dust, grass, ragweed and mold can cause seasonal allergies in pets, just as in humans. If you notice your pet sneezing, coughing or itching, contact your Wichita veterinarian for information on combating allergies.
The cooler seasons bring in rodents to homes and garages. Be cautious using rat poison where your pet can possibly access it. Put all poisons, fertilizers, weed killers, and rodent repellents up out of reach of your pet. If you suspect your pet has ingested poisons call Cimarron Animal Hospital right away.
Keep your Pet safe in your Home
When kids get home from school they may drop backpacks and lunch boxes with leftover food onto the floor. Some of these foods, like grapes, chocolate, and sugar-free snacks, can be deadly for animals. It’s best to keep lunch boxes on the counter and remove the temptation a pet may have to explore what’s in the bag.
Fall is a fun season full of decorations and fun activities like evening fires and fall festivals for children. Therefore, be sure to keep decorations, including jack-o-lanterns, glow sticks and candy away from pets. Your curious critter might end up with intestinal blockages from eating inappropriate holiday décor.
Ticks are prevalent in the fall, so normal treatments for fleas, ticks and heartworm should continue throughout the entire year for maximum protection for your pet.
These autumn dangers for pets can take the fun out of the fall season so be sure to pay attention to your pet’s surroundings, take precautions, and if necessary, get them to a veterinarian, such as Cimarron Animal Hospital as soon as possible. For additional fall safety tips check out the ASPCA.
