Fall is officially in season. The changing of the weather brings new things, the year winding down, the holiday season approaching, but also a few important things to keep in mind when it comes to keeping our pets safe during the fall. 

Cooler Temperatures

With the cooler temperatures that come with fall it is important to remember that dogs typically start getting cold when the weather drops below 45°F. Fall weather is very inconsistent. It could be 75°F and sunny one day and 40°F the next. So when taking your pet on a walk, just as you would layer up, do the same for them. Put a sweater on them, or even start putting a winter hat on them to make sure they can comfortably enjoy their walk.

Shorter Days and Low Visibility

In the fall, the days get shorter with the sun rising later and setting earlier. This is important to keep in mind when taking your pets for a walk. During summer you might have been taking them out at 8 pm with the sun still shining, but in the fall it will already be dark. A few ways to manage this is taking walks earlier, sticking to well lit routes, and wearing reflective gear to help keep both your pet and you safe.  

Watch out for slippery leaves and hidden hazards

With leaves falling and rain coming, hazards can appear on a walk that you don’t even realize. Wet leaves can be very slippery, increasing the risk of falling for both you and your pet. Piles of leaves may also hide sharp sticks, rocks, or uneven pavement that may injure your pet, and there could even be ticks or other insects that may latch onto your dog. These seemingly harmless leaves could end up causing a handful of issues, so if your dog loves leaves, let them sniff around, but redirect them from walking through, eating, or digging in leaf piles.

Wildlife Activity

Just like our dogs like being outside during the ideal fall temperatures, so do other wildlife animals who also are getting ready for the winter. Deers, squirrels, raccoons and skunks are much more active during this season, so being prepared to handle an encounter is very important. Keeping your dog distanced from these animals is best for their safety, as many may defend themselves if approaches, which can cause injury and some may also carry diseases. To reduce the unexpected run ins, keep your dog on a leash during walks and stay alert near wooded areas, fields, and leaf piles where wildlife may be hiding. 

Fall is a wonderful season to spend time outside with your dog, but it comes with a few challenges to keep in mind. By remembering these simple safety tips, you can make sure your pop enjoys the crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy season with you.