Falling Leaves & Wagging Tails: Five Things Every Dog Parent Should Know This Fall

Fall is one of the best times of year to be a dog. Cooler walks, backyard adventures, football Saturdays, and more time outside without the brutal summer heat. But the change of seasons also brings a few things worth keeping on your radar. Here are five simple ways to keep your best buddy happy and safe as autumn rolls in.

1. Watch the Halloween goodies

Chocolate is the obvious one, but sugar-free candy and gum can contain xylitol, which can be extremely dangerous to dogs. Raisins, certain nuts, wrappers, and unattended trick-or-treat bags can also turn a fun evening into an emergency vet visit.

2. Ticks don’t disappear when summer does

Cooler weather can make us think flea-and-tick season is over, but ticks can remain active well into fall—especially on warmer Southern days. Keep checking ears, paws, necks, and bellies after walks through leaves, woods, and tall grass.

3. Mushrooms, acorns, and mystery yard snacks deserve attention

Fall puts all kinds of interesting things on the ground, and dogs investigate with their mouths. Some wild mushrooms can be toxic, and eating large amounts of acorns or other plant material can cause stomach problems or even intestinal blockage. When in doubt, don’t let them eat it.

4. Everybody gets a little more social—and illnesses can travel too

Back-to-school season means plenty of sick kids and sniffly humans, although ordinary human colds generally aren’t something your dog “catches” from the family. Dogs do have their own respiratory illnesses, however, and increased trips to boarding facilities, daycare, dog parks, festivals, and holiday gatherings mean more opportunities for dog-to-dog exposure. Keep an eye out for unusual coughing, nasal discharge, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

5. Cooler weather changes routines

Dogs may suddenly want longer walks and more outdoor play—which is great—but shorter daylight hours mean more walking after dark. Reflective collars, lights, and leashes are inexpensive ways to make both you and your pup easier for drivers to see.

Fall should be about cool noses, crunchy leaves, long walks, and happy tails. A little awareness goes a long way toward keeping it that way.

From Pebbles and all of us at Pebbles’ Parlor: enjoy the season, stay safe, and save room for a little FROYO. 🐾