Autumn Pet Hazards

As Fall approaches and the weather begins to change, the same can be said for the needs and behaviors of our pets. As we prepare for a new season, we should make sure that our pets are prepared as well. Below are some hazards to watch out for this Fall.

Anti-Freeze:
Most radiator antifreeze or coolant contains ethylene glycol and is highly toxic. It's sweet taste makes it readily consumed by animals. It has been reported that only five teaspoons can kill a 10-pound dog, and even less will kill a cat. It is very fast acting and can result in kidney failure and death in a matter of hours.

Rodenticides:
Rodenticides that kill rodents hoping to spend the winter in your house can also kill your pet. They cause severe bleeding, kidney failure and death. There are no safe rodenticides. Whether its due to hunger, boredom, or curiosity, pets will consume these products.

Cold Weather:
Indoor pets that are not used to colder temperatures should not be left out for long periods of time. Outdoor pets can withstand fairly cold temperatures if provided with shelter from the wind and rain and have bedding to insulate them from the cold ground. Pets should gradually be introduced to cooler weather. You can suit dogs up for cold weather with warm clothing.

Allergies:
Fall is not only a bad allergy season for humans, but for pets also. Both indoor and outdoor pets can experience severe allergies in the Fall, the most common being itching.

Parasites:
Fleas seeking heat can make life miserable for you and your pets. When fleas bite, they suck blood, causing itching and irritation. Fleas can also spread diseases and a variety of medical problems.

Mosquitoes:
The West Nile Virus is more prevalent during the fall, due to an increased amount of mosquitoes that have been breeding all summer long.

Halloween:
Halloween can unnecessarily frighten and terrify your pets. Plan ahead. If you know your pets don't react well to noise, keep them in a quiet room away from the noise. Give them a favorite toy to play with along with a comfortable cushion. Play classical or other calming forms of music in the background to drown out outside noise. Chocolate can be harmful, even toxic to dogs and cats. Hard candies pose a choking hazard and block intestinal tracts.

Shedding:
You may notice your pet is shedding more than usual; this is normal for pets. In the spring, dogs lose their winter coat for shorter ones, and then shed their summer coat in the fall. While the amount of shedding varies from breed to breed, all shedders, even the heaviest, can be tamed by regular and frequently scheduled combing and brushing. Heavy shedding can be sign of health problems. Skin allergies and skin parasites may trigger shedding and poor nutrition could also be a cause of coat problems.

Signs:
Signs of arthritis exacerbate in colder weather as you may notice your dog licking at its joints, experience stiffness in the morning, struggling to move and taking awhile to warm up, or be reluctant to jump in and out of the car or climb steps. Your dog may also start limping after long walks. Arthritis causes a constant and nagging pain. Though you may not think your dog is hurting, they may be masking the symptoms and living with the pain.