Autumn is the perfect season to go on lots of walks with your dog. The changing colours and cooler weather will make those long walks with your dog so much more enjoyable. The cooler autumn temperatures make walks more comfortable for your dog compared to the summer heat, it also gives your dog the chance to experience new sights and smells. Read on for some tips for your next autumn walk with your dog.
Unfortunately, when autumn comes around, so do the shorter days. It is a good idea to change your walking routine so that you aren’t always walking in the dark. You may need to walk later in the morning and earlier in the evening to make sure you avoid the dark autumn walks. If you can’t always walk in the daylight, walking around towns and cities lit with lampposts is often safer as it means you can clearly see your walking route. This can often be a new experience for your dog and a break from their current walking route.
When walking in the dusk or dark hours, always make sure that you and your dog are as visible as possible to avoid any accidents. This can be done by wearing a hi-vis, flashing lights or anything reflective on either or both you and your dog. For tips on how to keep your dog safe in the dark, click here.
It is best to not let your dog off the lead in the dark. Dogs are often hard to see when it is dark and they can become disorientated in low visibility.
We sell a range of hi-vis products in all our stores. Click here to find your local WCF store.
After your autumn walk, it is important that you make sure you clean your dog, especially if they have gotten wet or muddy. This will help to prevent any health issues from developing.
When autumn comes around, there are a few toxins to keep an eye out for that pose a risk to dogs. One toxin to be aware of for this season are conkers. These can block your dog’s airways but also contain a chemical called aesculin which can cause internal damage if eaten.
Acorns are toxic due to the presence of tannic acid. When eaten, this can cause your dog to have an upset stomach and diarrhoea, which can lead to internal damage and kidney disease.
Wet leaves also pose a threat to dogs. Piles of wet leaves are the perfect breeding ground for mould and bacteria which can make your dog extremely ill.
If you think your dog has swallowed any of these toxins on your autumn walk, contact your vet immediately. For information on autumn dog toxins, click here.