Autumn Pet Safety Tips

Ahh, Fall!! My favorite time of the year. The kids are back in school, and the crisp, cool weather is a welcome change from the searing heat of the past few months. Your pets would probably agree. It is a great time to be outside, and they love it too. With the change of seasons comes another set of potential hazards lurking in your yard. There are simple things that you can do to keep your pet safe and healthy this autumn. The best advice is to use common sense and take a few precautions.

Here are 8 tips to help your pet remain healthy through the autumn months.

1. Yard mulch

• Cocoa mulch contains a chemical which is deadly if ingested; it also has a chocolate scent which can be appetizing to some animals.

2. Garbage cans

• Cats and small dogs like to lick from empty cans but many get their head caught . Like This

• Prevent this by squeezing the end of cans before disposing.

3. Oak trees

• Acorns are toxic especially to small breed dogs

• Acorns can cause airway obstruction

4. Leaves

• Leaves, bark, and acorns contain toxic chemicals

• Keep water bowls clean and free from debris

5. Caterpillars

• Although fun to play with, hairs can cause irritation and rash

6. Mushrooms

• Some toxic, some harmless

• Difficult to distinguish

7. Snakes

• As snakes prepare for hibernation, they are more likely to bite

8. Antifreeze

• Ethylene glycol based coolants are toxic to pets

• Clean spills immediately

• Watch for leaks

As autumn approaches, go ahead, get outside. Just remember to employ some common sense precautions to keep your pets safe.  As always, if your pet is experiencing a serious reaction, contact your veterinarian. To learn more about your pets or pet products consider attending the Harvest Fest at Braxton’s Animal Works on Sunday, September 23, 2012. This worthy cause benefits local animal rescues such as; Animal Rescue Foundation of SEPA, Adopt A Boxer, and Brookline Lab Rescue just to name a few.  It promises to be a day filled with fun for you and your family, including the furry members.  So save the date! September 23, 2012.