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Fall Pet Care Tips

September 15, 2021

Summer is almost over, and fall is just about a week away. As the weather cools, you’ll need to pay a bit of extra attention to your pet. In this article, a local Hudson Valley, NY vet offers some fall pet care tips.

Comfort

As the weather cools, many pets will spend even more time curled up in their beds than usual. (We can’t really blame them.) Make sure that your four-legged pal has a good bed. This will not only cushion them, so they can sleep well, it also provides insulation from chilly floors.

Heating Elements

Candles, fireplaces, and space heaters can all make your home feel warm and cozy. Just make sure your furry friend can’t reach them. Keep candles in thick sconces or candle holders, well out of paws’ reach. If you use a fireplace, get a thick grate.

Halloween

Halloween presents its own set of hazards. Many of those candies are unsafe for pets: chocolate, raisins, nuts, and xylitol, which is in many processed goods, are all toxic to pets. Increased traffic is another concern. You’ll also need to be careful with decorations. Put anything small, sharp, or toxic out of paw’s reach. We also recommend limiting your pet’s outdoor/yard time that week. Black cats are particularly at risk here.

Weather

The weather can change quickly at this time of year. If your canine pal has thin fur, he may need a coat for colder days. If your pooch has a doghouse, make sure it’s well insulated and ready for winter.

Lights

It starts to get dark quite early at this time of year. If you won’t be home before nightfall, leave a lamp on for your little buddy. You’ll also want reflective gear for walking Fido.

Chemicals

Fall is a popular time for people to fill their cars with antifreeze, and apply pesticide and fertilizer to their yards and gardens. These chemicals are very dangerous for pets. Fluffy and Fido could ingest these poisons just by walking through a recently-treated spot and then licking their paws. Antifreeze is another concern, as it’s highly toxic to pets. Choose pet-safe products when you can. If you do apply chemicals to your property, give the area a good soaking after.

Enjoy your fall! Please contact us, your Hudson Valley, NY veterinary clinic, with any questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care!