Autumn with dogs: Minor hazards you should be aware of
We must take steps to prevent potential problems
Autumn is one of the most pleasant times of year for enjoying long walks with our dog. Temperatures drop, the landscape changes and the first rains fill parks and footpaths with new smells that pique their curiosity.
However, this season also brings some risks that can go unnoticed. Mushrooms, fallen fruit, standing water and parasites are just some of the things we need to watch out for.
It’s not about stopping our dog from exploring and enjoying themselves, but about being aware of these minor dangers to prevent potential problems.
Mushrooms: better to look at them than to taste them
With the first rains, mushrooms appear in gardens, parks and countryside areas. Some species can be highly toxic to dogs, causing anything from digestive upset to serious damage to organs such as the liver or kidneys.
If you suspect your dog has eaten a wild mushroom, contact a vet immediately. If possible, take a photo of the mushroom to help with identification, and never try to make your dog vomit on your own.
Acorns, chestnuts and other fallen fruit
The ground is littered with little autumnal treasures that can pique our pets’ curiosity.
Acorns contain tannins which can cause digestive problems if swallowed. Furthermore, acorns, chestnuts and other fruits of a certain size can cause choking or intestinal blockages.
Take particular care with horse chestnuts, which are toxic to dogs and must not be confused with edible chestnuts.
It is best to prevent your pet from picking up and chewing on unfamiliar fruits whilst out on walks.
Puddles: an unwise temptation
After it has rained, some dogs find it irresistible to drink from any puddle they come across.
However, stagnant water may contain microorganisms, including bacteria such as those responsible for leptospirosis, as well as traces of chemicals or other pollutants.
It’s a good habit to always carry clean water and a portable bowl, especially when going on a walk.
Parasites also enjoy the autumn
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean that fleas and ticks disappear.
In temperate climates such as the Costa del Sol, certain parasites can remain active for much of the year.
That’s why it’s important to maintain the parasite protection recommended by your vet and to check your dog after walks in the countryside, paying particular attention to the ears, neck, armpits and the spaces between the toes.
Watch out for what’s hidden in the leaves!
Leaf litter can conceal small objects, food scraps, glass or plant matter that can cause injuries to your dog’s paws.
After walking in countryside areas or particularly damp spots, it’s a good idea to check their paw pads, remove any plant debris and dry the spaces between their toes thoroughly.
It’s also a good time to reinforce commands such as ‘drop it’ or ‘leave it’ through play and positive reinforcement. Teaching your dog not to pick up just anything off the ground can save you more than one scare.
What if your dog has swallowed something dangerous?
If you suspect your dog has eaten a mushroom, a plant or any potentially toxic substance, you should contact a vet as soon as possible, even if your dog is not yet showing any symptoms.
It is important to try to identify what your dog has swallowed, how much and how long ago. You must not administer home remedies or induce vomiting without professional advice.
The onset of tremors, repeated vomiting, weakness, excessive drooling, seizures or breathing difficulties requires urgent veterinary attention.
📌Enjoying autumn also means taking preventative measures: Autumn offers wonderful opportunities to spend time outdoors with our dogs. A little foresight, a bottle of water, keeping their parasite protection up to date and checking their paws after every walk are small steps that contribute to their wellbeing.