Autumn Care for your Dog
Fallen leaves look harmless, but they hide ticks, toxic mushrooms, and enough moisture to leave your dog’s paws wet and muddy by the end of the walk. From the changing weather, shorter days, fallen leaves and seasonal hazards, a little extra preparation can help keep your dog safe and happy this fall.
Continue Tick Prevention
Blacklegged ticks can stay active in Canada whenever temperatures remain above 4°C, and they can be active well into November. Ticks can hide in fallen leaves as they provide moisture and warmth. Fallen leaves provide ticks with hosts such as mice and other small animals.
Keep your dog on year-round tick, flea, and heartworm prevention.
Speak with your veterinarian about the best parasite prevention for your dog.
Inspect your dog for ticks after walks in wooded areas or fallen leaves.
Watch for Toxic Mushrooms
Autumn rain and damp weather can cause wild mushrooms to grow in Canadian parks and backyards. Wild mushrooms can be very dangerous or even deadly to dogs. Keep your dog walks on clear paths and away from piles of leaves, where mushrooms and mold can grow.
Important Information:
If ingestion occurs, call your veterinarian or nearest emergency Vet clinic
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear before getting help. Some dangerous toxins can take time to cause signs of illness while they are already harming your dog’s internal organs.
Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-764-7661 or
ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 1-888-426-4435
Add Reflective Gear
As the days get shorter during the autumn season, morning and evening walks are often done in low light or complete darkness. My neighbourhood can be surprisingly dark, even with streetlights, so I use a small LED light attached to my dog’s harness during nighttime walks. Popular types of reflective or light up gear are vest, collars, leashes, and harnesses.
Consider a LED light, light-up collar, or reflective tags.
Better visibility helps drivers and cyclists spot your dog.
Dark-coated dogs can be especially difficult to see at night.
Don’t forget to use a flashlight or headlamp for yourself too.
Stay alert and keep your dog close when walking in low-light conditions.
Care for Wet Paws
Puddles, mud, and early morning frost can leave your dog’s paw pads with caked on mud, irritated, even dry and cracked.
After wet or muddy walks, wipe your dog’s paws and underbelly with a towel to remove moisture, dirt, and debris.
If mud has caked on, use a wet towel first, then dry with a fresh towel.
Apply a paw balm that’s safe for pets if paw pads feel rough or dry, to keep them moisturized and protected.
See my Winter Care for your Dog blog for more on protecting paw pads.
My dog is a fluffy Husky, so I always make sure to pat her fur dry and clean her paws after any wet or muddy walk.
Be Mindful of Seasonal Allergies
Just like people, dogs can experience seasonal allergies. Watch for signs such as excessive itching, scratching, chewing or licking their paws, or rubbing their face. If you notice these symptoms, speak with your veterinarian. They can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Common Fall Allergy Triggers
Ragweed pollen: Ragweed is a common fall allergen and can be especially prevalent in early autumn.
Mold spores: Damp fallen leaves and wet ground can create ideal conditions for mold growth.
Dust mites: As indoor heating systems are turned on, pets may be exposed to more dust and dust mites inside the home.
Fleas: Fleas can remain active during cooler fall weather and may continue to cause itching and skin irritation in pets.
With a little extra planning, you and your dog can safely enjoy the autumn weather and what it has to offer. Stay safe, stay mindful, and make plenty of happy memories together!
Dogs4Walks Is Here For You!
Walks, private outings, house visits. I work around your schedule, and I know what your dog needs to stay safe and active. Reach out anytime. First meet and greet is always free.
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