02/11/2021
The top autumnal hazards for dogs
1. Conkers and acorns These can choke or poison your dog if swallowed. Lodged conkers may require surgery to remove and, if ingested, can cause vomiting, diarrhoea or even death. Other signs of poisoning include lethargy, restlessness and loss of appetite. 2. Decaying plant matter This includes the mould on fallen fruit or compost, which can cause sickness, twitching and tremors. Apples can also produce alcohol when they rot, leaving your dog at risk of alcohol poisoning. Note that wild mushrooms grow from decay and some varieties can cause your dog to become ill. ‘Many mushrooms cause only mild gastrointestinal upset, but some can cause severe and rapid onset vomiting, diarrhoea, salivation and low heart rate. Some mushrooms cause hallucinations or kidney or liver damage. Each year we have a few fatal cases of mushroom poisoning in dogs.’ – Veterinary Poisons Institution Service 3. Poisonous seasonal plants Species such as the yew tree, cherry laurel, horse chestnut and autumn crocus bulbs can be risky. If chewed on and ingested, these can cause dizziness, vomiting, internal bleeding and organ damage – so keep a close eye out on your woodland walks. 4. Antifreeze, rock salt and de-icers These may come in handy when defrosting your car and driveway, but these chemicals can be toxic to dogs. Ingestion of large quantities of salt can also cause salt poisoning, so make sure these are stored safely away from prying puppy eyes. ‘Antifreeze can contain ethylene glycol which can cause renal failure in pets. Initial signs of ethylene glycol poisoning are non-specific (e.g. vomiting and lethargy) and can be easily missed.’ – Veterinary Poisons Institution Service 5. Potentially harmful foods It’s not only chocolate at Halloween that can make your dog very poorly. Although the flesh of apples is safe to eat, the pips contain a small amount of cyanide, so remove the cores before feeding to your dog. Plus raisins, currents and sultanas can cause kidney failure, so take care not to spill any while making your Christmas pudding. 6. Traffic hazards Road incidents can happen all year round, but the reduced visibility and poorer weather conditions during this time of year can make it hard for drivers to see you walking with your pooch. Consider using reflective safety gear so you and your pet can keep exploring, even after it gets dark. Keep your precious pup safe and close by with one of the best dog harnesses of 2021. What to do if you think your pet has been hurt or poisoned Cases of severe pet poisonings in autumn are rare but they do still happen. It’s vital to know the steps to take if you suspect your pet is unwell or injured. The Veterinary Poisons Information Service recommends the following: If your pet is showing signs of poisoning, such as collapse, severe tremors or convulsions, take your pet to the vet immediately Do not try to make your pet vomit and never give them salt water (it can be lethal) If you are unsure if a visit to your vet is necessary, call your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509 000, charges apply) for advice. For more information on poisoning in dogs, see advice from VPIS through its Animal PoisonLine leaflet. Safe seasonal activities to enjoy with your dog Although there are risks to be aware of, autumn can still be an ideal time to go on adventures and treat your pup to some seasonal food and fun. You could: Take a long hike with your four-legged friend. The cooler harvest-season temperature means dogs can run and play for longer with less risk of overheating – so more games of fetch to be had! Feed them some autumnal treats like unsweetened pumpkin, cooked and skinless sweet potato, cooked butternut squash, apples with the pips and core removed, corn and carrots. Go to a pumpkin patch so you can pick your Halloween pumpkin and your dog gets a nice walk! Bear in mind, not all farms are dog-friendly, so search online or call ahead to make sure pets are allowed. Have an outdoor photoshoot in the autumn sunshine. It’s the time of year to make the most of the beautiful changing scenery, so why not take some timeless pics with your furry best friend? Or, if your pooch doesn’t mind it, get dressed up in your best Halloween costumes for some spooky snaps. Make memories that will last forever with our tips on how to take great photos of your dog. With thanks to the Veterinary Poisons Institute Service (VPIS) and the Blue Cross for their expert information included in this article.
