Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe During the Fall Season

Trees like oak, walnut, and apple shed their fruits and nuts during the fall season. While they might seem like playful trinkets for pets, some of them can be toxic. For instance, acorns from oak trees contain tannins that can be harmful if ingested. Always supervise outdoor play and fallen produce regularly. Here are some fruits and veggies you can safely feed your pet while they enjoy the fall festivities.

Cooler fall weather can lead to an increase in fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Ensure your pet's preventive treatments are up to date and regularly inspect their coat for any pests after outdoor excursions.

Short-haired or older pets might feel the chilly fall weather more acutely as temperatures dip, especially during early mornings and late evenings. Consider a light sweater or blanket to keep them warm. After you head back inside, treat your pet to a tasty mix-in filled with flavors they crave and benefits you’ll love!

Antifreeze is commonly used in vehicles during the colder months. Its sweet taste can be enticing to pets, but it's extremely toxic. Make sure to store antifreeze containers away from your pet and clean spills immediately to help keep them safe.

With reduced activity during the colder months, pets might require fewer calories. Monitor their weight and consult with your vet about potential dietary adjustments. Also, consider indoor activities to keep them moving like putting their favorite Yummers food in a treat ball to help burn excess energy. Make sure to keep an eye on their calorie intake so they maintain a healthy weight.

Just as some humans are allergic to fall pollen, so are some dogs and cats. If your pet shows signs of allergies, such as excessive itching, sneezing, or eye discharge, reach out to your vet for advice. If your pet struggles with itchy skin, this DIY 3-ingredient recipe made with Yummers can help them enjoy a delicious treat during the fall fun.

With days getting shorter in the fall season, your evening walks might fall during dusk. Use reflective gear or LED collars to ensure your pet is visible and try to walk in areas that are well-lit. Find areas that are less crowded and keep your pet close to you in case there are any loose pets.

During the fall and winter months, it's crucial to safeguard your pet's delicate paws from the harsh elements. Snow, ice, and the salt used to melt them can cause dryness, cracks, or even burns on their pads. Ensure you wipe your pet's feet after outdoor walks to remove ice and chemicals and consider using pet-safe booties or paw balms to provide an added layer of protection and moisture. Regularly checking and maintaining your pet's paw health will ensure they enjoy winter walks without discomfort.

Jumping into leaf piles can be joyous for pets. However, these piles can harbor mold or pests — some of the molds can even cause tremors! If you let your pet play in leaf piles, make sure to inspect the leaves first and supervise your pet while they have some outdoor fun.