Fall With Fido

Fall is in full swing now. Many of our canine patients love taking walks through that beautiful foliage, and enjoying those crisp, clear days. However, Fido’s needs do change a bit with the seasons. Read on as a Hudson Valley, NY vet offers some advice on spending autumn with your four-legged buddy.

Weather

It’s starting to get cold, and that trend isn’t going to be reversed for a while. Although Fido is wearing a fur coat, he’s still vulnerable to and affected by weather changes. Dogs with thin fur will need jackets or sweaters. You’ll also want to make sure your furry friend has a comfy bed for snuggling up in on those chilly autumn nights.

Darkness

The sun is going down pretty early now, which means lots of night walks for many of you. Get Fido a reflective leash and/or harness, and wear light or reflective clothing yourself, so you’ll be easy to spot. Always wear shoes or boots with good tread. It’s also a good idea to take a flashlight with you.

Comfort

Changes in weather can be particularly difficult for older dogs, and for those with musculoskeletal issues. Fido may act stiff and sore on cold days. Supplements may help with this. Your vet may also recommend other treatment options.

Grooming

Keep up with your pup’s beauty care needs! Fido will be much more comfortable—not to mention warmer—with soft, clean fur. You may also want to stock up on paw balm and pet-safe deicing products before winter.

Hazards

Autumn can be a dangerous time of year for Man’s Best Friend. Toxins are one concern. Many people fill their cars with antifreeze in autumn. This is also a popular time for adding fertilizers and rodenticides. Your canine pal could ingest these things just by walking through a puddle or recently-treated spot, and licking his paws after. Other hazards include foliage, mold and mildew, and even mushrooms.

Preventative Care

As it gets colder, many wild animals will be looking for places to hunker down for the winter. Some animals get quite aggressive before they hibernate. Be careful when walking your furry buddy in wild or wooded areas! Also, make sure that your pooch is microchipped, wearing ID tags, and current on vaccine and parasite control.

As your Hudson Valley, NY animal clinic, we’re dedicated to offering top-notch care. Please feel free to contact us anytime!