With the leaves changing colour and a chill in the air, the new season can bring endless fun with autumn doggy walks across moors and woodland – however hidden hazards can put our pets at risk of emergencies.
To keep your pets happy and safe, it's really important to be aware of the potentially poisonous hazards the new season brings - especially as many of them can very easily be found on the ground whilst out on walks. Taking precautionary measures and being mindful of seasonal dangers when out and about with pets is key to help keep them safe this autumn.
- Acorns - Acorns contain a chemical called gallotannin that's toxic to dogs and ingestion can cause liver and kidney damage. Affected dogs will show signs that include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and abdominal pain.
- Mushrooms and toadstools - Some wild mushrooms are highly toxic and if swallowed can cause kidney and liver failure. Try and keep your dog away from all wild varieties.
- Conkers - Conkers contain poison called aesculin which can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Ingestion can also lead to potentially fatal intestinal blockages .
- Grass seeds - Also known as grass awns, these backward-pointing barbs, typically fall off long, wild grass, barley and rye, and embed themselves in a pet's paws, ears, armpits, tail, or skin, sometimes causing painful wounds and infections. In rare cases, grass awns have also been known to burrow under the skin and travel to other parts of the body. All dogs can be affected but the most susceptible are those with feathery toes who enjoy skipping through long grass, such as springer spaniels.
- Fallen leaves and fallen fruit - Leaves left long enough will eventually turn to leaf mould and, like any decomposing organic matter, may contain dangerous mycotoxins.
- Harvest mites - In autumn, these tiny insects climb up long grass, bushes and trees waiting to sink their fangs into something warm blooded. Signs of infestation can include skin inflammation and scratching.
- Rat poison - Rodenticide is commonly put down in autumn when rats start heading indoors for warmth. While designed to taste nice to rats, unfortunately, dogs like it for the same reason. Speak to your vet if you think your dog has eaten rat poison.
- Rock salt - Rock salt or grit on the roads can cause your dog to become dehydrated or in serious cases, cause liver failure if they lick it from their paws. Ensure you wipe away any rock salt after you have taken them on a walk.
For more health tips for your furry friend visit our health guides by clicking here: Puppy Guides, Resources and News: Puppy Health - Forever Puppy