Fall is a great
time to build some special memories with your pet: cozying up by the fire,
taking in the crisp fall air, walking through fallen leaves, and enjoying all
the sights and smells of the season.
As with any
change of season, your pet is coming in contact with new experiences and
exposures both around the house and outdoors that perhaps weren't present in
the previous season. To protect your pet this fall, here are some common
hazards that you and your family should be aware of:
School supplies
Now that the
kids are back in school, your pet may be tempted to snack on some school
supplies that may be lying around, such as crayons, markers, glue, or pencils.
These objects can be a choking hazard or can be toxic for your pet to ingest.
Keep school supplies in areas where your pet can’t reach them and share this
important tip with your children.
Rodenticides
We do not
recommend the use of rodenticides. However, their use tends to be higher
in the fall, when mice are starting to look for somewhere warm to go for the
winter. Rodenticides are toxic to more than just mice, so make sure they’re
placed in areas not accessible to your pets. As an alternative,
we recommend a holistic deterrent of vinegar and pepper mix spray.
Engine coolants
If you’re
changing your engine coolant this fall, avoid ethylene glycol-based coolants
and instead go for the less toxic glycol-based coolants. Glycol-based coolants
could still make your pet sick if ingested, so any spills should be cleaned
thoroughly.
Visibility
With days
getting shorter, there may be less daylight during your dog walks. Make sure
both you and your pet are wearing bright colours or consider purchasing a
collar with an LED light.
Indoor and outdoor
heating sources
Keep your pet
from getting too close to potentially dangerous heating sources. That means
keeping your fireplace cover closed and keeping pets away from outdoor fire
pits and electric heaters. Remember to also turn off electric heaters if no one
is home.
Mushrooms
While most wild
mushrooms aren't toxic, it can be difficult to distinguish a toxic mushroom
from a non-toxic one. Keep your pet away from areas where wild mushrooms are
found. If you see that your pet has eaten a wild mushroom, contact your vet or
animal poison control immediately.
Snakes
As the weather
gets cooler, snakes will start getting ready for winter hibernation. Make sure
you’re familiar with poisonous snakes in your area and keep your pets from
going off trail or in areas with long grass.
Following these
tips this fall, can ensure your pets stay safe while enjoying the new season.
Keep your tails wagging
Bear's P4ws
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