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Pet Safety Tips During The Fall Weather

When I think of fall, the first things that pop into my head are the leaves changing colors, pumpkins, apple cider, Halloween, cooler weather and shorter days. While this season is an exciting time for many people across the United States, it can be a dangerous time for your pets. Between the sudden drop in temperature, holidays and the first few months of school, there are plenty of environmental factors to keep in mind when it comes to protecting your furry best friends.

I would like to share some seasonally relevant precautions to remember when your pet is playing outside or just wandering through your home:

  1. Rodenticides and Other Poisons:

    Small rodents seek shelter from the colder temp, so the use of rodenticides increases during fall months. Unfortunately, they are extremely toxic to our pets and if they were to ingest one, there could be fatal consequences. If you plan to use a product such as this, make sure your pet is unable to access them. This also includes other pesticides and engine coolant.

  2. School Supplies:

    School is back in session and since most of us are starting the school year remotely, there will more than likely school supplies laying around your home. Items like pencils, pens, and glue can be harmful to your dog or cat if they ingest or play with them. Make sure the kids pick up these items when they are finished with the school day.

  3. Toxic Mushrooms:

    Along with spring, fall is a mushroom season. Even though there are a limited number of toxic mushrooms, it is best to keep your pet away from all types because sometimes it is hard to distinguish which ones are harmful. If you believe your pet has ingested a poisonous mushroom, take them to your veterinarian right away.

  4. Colder Weather – Darker Earlier:

    The temperature during the fall is unpredictable. If it is a colder day, bring your pet inside earlier in the evening so they do not get too cold. Also make sure they have a comfortable environment to sleep in. If you walk your dog regularly in the evening, wear something bright and get a reflective collar so drivers can see you.

  5. Heating Devices:

    It is no secret that your pet loves to get into things they are not supposed to. If you are using an indoor heating device, like a space heater, make sure it is turned off before you leave to avoid it causing an accident, such as a house fire.

  6. Pests and Wildlife:

    During this time of the year, snakes are preparing for hibernation. This means they can be more easily agitated, making them bite if they are provoked. Be sure to know the types of snakes that live your area and remember to be extra cautious if they are poisonous. Also be cautious of coyotes or other animals that are preparing to put on fat for the winter months. It is important to not let your pets roam too far from the house, especially if you live on a large property close to the woods.

  7. Bonfires:

    There is nothing better than roasting marshmallows around a bonfire in the fall, but it can turn into a dangerous situation if you have a dog or cat. After you get the fire going, close off the fire pit and keep your pet away from the spark zone to ensure you have a relaxing, worry-free night.

  8. Halloween Candy:

    The most popular trick-or-treat candy is chocolate – and although most humans think it’s delicious – it is extremely toxic for your pets. The common candy sweetener called xylitol is another harmful ingredient for your pets, so play it safe and keep all candy away. You can always make it up to them with the appropriate dog or cat treats and toys instead.

  9. Lawn and Gardening Tools:

    Fall is a busy season for landscaping and other work on the exterior of your home. When you are finished working, be sure to clean up any tools or garden products you were using to help prevent your pet from getting into them.

  10. Fruit Pits and Berries:

    Do you have fruit trees around your home? You should pick up any fallen fruits, fruit pits, seeds and berries. This can include pits from cherries, plums, peaches and nectarines because they can cause bowel and intestinal blockages and they also contain cyanide.

If you believe your pet has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center right away.

If you are looking for pet insurance, R.C. Keller & Company can help find the best product for you. We are a family owned independent insurance agency that has been serving the Schaumburg community and surrounding areas since 1910. We have helped the community with their home, auto, business and life insurance; if you have questions or are looking for a free review of your current insurance plan please give us a call at 847-907-4520.


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