As summer turns into winter and the nights draw in, there are lots of things that change within the environment and things owners need to be mindful of. So, I thought I would write a little list:
Conkers and acorns - both are toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Whilst we may all be tempted to pop them into the corners of our rooms to ward off any spiders, it’s not advisable if you have pets. If your pet eats one, it would be best to call the vet and ask for advice.
Fallen leaves - decaying leaves can contain fungi and bacteria as they start to rot. This can also affect your dog’s tummy and make them ill.
Fallen fruit - whilst they may look appealing (especially to our late golden retriever, Missy – would will eat anything), fallen apples and plums ferment due to their sugar content and this can cause severe vomiting and illness if eaten by your dog.
Fleas - our friend the flea also makes an unwelcome return as we turn the heating on. The eggs can lay dormant in the carpet and the warmth of the heating wakes them - lovely little critters!! It’s always good practice to treat your dog for fleas and worms regularly as directed by your vet.
Slugs and snails - another good reason to keep your pets up to date with flea and worm treatment. Slugs and snails love to come out when it is damp. They can cause lungworm in dogs and this can be fatal if untreated. Dogs like to eat snails and slugs (especially as pups) but its not quite escargot as we know it (if you like that sort of thing)! Lurking in this meaty morsel is a whole lot of trouble for dogs. You should discourage dogs from eating slugs and snails and also licking or sniffing their slimy trail.
Mushrooms and toad stalls - these make an appearance in autumn and there are a good number of them that we, in the UK, have as native fungi. If digested these can cause violent vomiting and you should seek veterinary advice immediately. A mushroom can cause a dog’s heart rate to fasten and in turn can cause seizures and death.
Antifreeze - as we prepare for winter, a lot of us will start to use antifreeze and salt. Antifreeze is ethylene glycol and is sweet to taste, so dogs will easily lick it. Antifreeze is toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure. If antifreeze is consumed, dogs can become unstable on their legs and can fall over. Their back and kidney area become painful to touch too. Often this is accompanied by vomiting, dehydration and an increase in urination. If you suspect your dog has consumed antifreeze then you should treat this as an emergency and seek help immediately. Antifreeze should never be left where your dog can access it. Even a small amount can be very dangerous to dogs, for example if left in puddles. So, please discourage your dog from licking water that you do not know is clean!
Salt - salt used to clear ice can cause your dog’s paw pads to crack, become sore and even get infected. Salt of this kind can also be toxic to dogs if consumed and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea. In some cases, it can be so severe it can cause seizures and/or death. A common way dogs consume salt is by licking their pads. Best practice is to wash your dog’s paws when returning home from a walk, especially when you may have encountered salt on your route. This not only prevents them from licking their paws but also helps to stop infection. This could become part of your daily routine when walking in autumn and winter - it is better to be safe than sorry.
Obviously, we all enjoy the seasonal change and the colours. I especially look forward to the appearance of Santa and, dare I say it, snow! However, as we are out and about enjoying nature in all her splendour, watch out for the hidden dangers so our dogs remain safe and well.
All views and opinions are my own. If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s dog you should seek advice from professional services (useful contacts can be found here).
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