Fall Pet Health Tips: Preparing Your Furry Friends for Cooler Weather

As summer gives way to the cool, crisp days of autumn here in Columbus, it’s time to think about how the change in season affects our pets. Just like we pull out our Buckeye sweaters and start prepping our homes for chilly weather, our furry friends need a little extra fall care too.

The team at Animal Care Unlimited has tips to help you and your pets get ready for a cozy fall season.

Preparing Pets for Cooler Weather

As the temperatures begin to drop—especially during the mornings and evenings—start layering your pets up to spend outside. Some dog breeds, like Saint Bernards, German Shepherds, and even Labrador Retrievers, will develop a thick layer of fur to help insulate their skin.

But if you have a short-haired dog, they might need a cozy sweater for walks around the Scioto Mile or your local park.

Spending time outside isn’t necessarily a negative thing, but make sure your furry friends stay warm with extra layers. And if they spend any amount of time outdoors during the winter, like in an enclosed yard, make sure you provide an insulated outdoor shelter.

Seasonal Pet Care Tips for Skin

Allergies don’t just hit in the spring. They can bother your pet in the fall, too. So can pests like fleas and ticks. Make sure you groom Fido regularly and stay on top of flea and tick preventives for dogs, cats, and other furry animals. Monthly baths with a moisturizing shampoo can help keep the skin hydrated.

If you see your pet itching or scratching, you may want to bring him to the vet for an allergy assessment.

And even though the heat of summer is gone, your pets still need plenty of water. Make sure they always have fresh water available whether they’re inside or outside.

Autumn Pet Safety Tips

With fall comes a bit more darkness in the mornings and evenings. Reflective collars or LED lights are a great way to keep your pets visible to others. This helps you and your pet stay safe during autumn walks.

But this isn’t where the fall safety concerns end. Halloween is big in Columbus, and while the decorations are fun, they can be a danger to curious pets. Keep an eye out and make sure things like string lights and plastic decorations are out of reach of your beloved companions.

Plus, some fall decor, like decorative corn and pumpkins, can be toxic to pets if they decide to snack on them. Be mindful of what’s within your pet’s reach, especially if you’re decorating your home for the holidays.

Fall Fun for Everyone

You can help your pets transition smoothly into a dazzling Columbus fall by making a few simple adjustments with our fall pet safety tips. If your pet needs some extra preparation for fall fleas, ticks, or allergies, request an appointment or call us at 614-766-2317.

We look forward to helping you and your pets enjoy a fantastic fall!