Keeping your pet happy and healthy as the seasons change
Autumn brings cooler temperatures, shorter days, and the kind of crisp air that makes outdoor walks extra enjoyable. But while we’re pulling out our warm jumpers, our pets are facing seasonal changes too. From temperature drops to hidden dangers in the garden, Autumn brings new challenges for pet owners.
Here’s how you can keep your pet safe, comfortable, and happy as the seasons shift. And how Lonely Pets Club’s pet sitting services can help when you need an extra hand.
Watch out for Autumn allergies
Just like us, pets can develop seasonal allergies. Pollen, mould from damp leaves, and dust mites can all trigger reactions in dogs and cats. If your pet is suddenly scratching more than usual, licking their paws excessively, or developing red, irritated skin, it might be Autumn allergies.
What you can do:
- Keep your home and pet’s bedding clean to reduce allergens.
- Wipe down paws after walks to remove pollen.
- If symptoms persist, check with your vet.
If you’re away from home and using a pet sitting service, aka Lonely Pets Club, your pet carer can help monitor signs of allergies and let you know if anything seems off.
Beware of mushrooms and toxic plants
After Autumn rain, mushrooms can tend to pop up in gardens and parks. While many are harmless, some can be toxic to pets. It’s best to assume all wild mushrooms are unsafe and prevent your pet from eating them.
Fallen leaves can also hide other hazards, like rotting fruit or nuts that may be dangerous if swallowed.
What you can do:
- Check your backyard for mushrooms and remove them.
- Keep an eye on your pet during walks.
- If you suspect your pet has eaten something toxic, call your vet immediately.
For pet owners using Lonely Pets Club’s pet sitting services, our professional pet carers make sure your pet stays safe during toilet breaks and outdoor time, so you don’t have to worry about hidden dangers.
Colder mornings and darker evenings
As the days shorten, early morning and evening walks may be in lower light. This means pets are at higher risk of not being seen by passing cars or cyclists.
What you can do:
- Use a reflective collar or lead for extra visibility.
- Stick to well-lit paths when walking at dawn or dusk.
- Keep pets warm. Smaller or older dogs may need a jacket on colder days.
If you’re out late or working long hours, a pet sitter from Lonely Pets Club can step in to keep your pet’s routine on track, ensuring they get their walks at safe times of the day.
Fleas and ticks don’t take a break
It might be cooler, but fleas and ticks are still hanging around. In fact, in some areas, ticks are more active in Autumn than in Summer. If your pet spends time outdoors, make sure their flea and tick prevention is up to date.
What you can do:
- Keep up with flea and tick treatments.
- Regularly check your pet’s coat, especially after walks.
- Wash bedding and vacuum floors frequently.
Our pet carers at Lonely Pets Club can keep an eye out for any flea or tick activity and let you know if anything seems unusual during their visits.
Autumn foods: what’s safe and what’s not?
As we embrace warm, hearty meals, it’s important to remember that some Autumn foods aren’t pet-friendly.
Grapes, raisins, onions, and chocolate are toxic to pets, and fatty foods can lead to stomach upsets.
What you can do:
- Keep harmful foods out of reach.
- Avoid giving pets table scraps, especially from rich Autumn meals.
- If you’re leaving food out while you’re away, make sure it’s pet-safe.
When using pet sitting services, our pet carers can ensure your pet sticks to their usual diet, avoiding any food-related mishaps.
Keep your pet’s routine consistent
The change in daylight hours can affect your pet’s routine. They might start asking for dinner earlier or get restless when it’s darker outside. Sticking to regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedules helps keep them settled.
Lonely Pets Club’s pet sitting service is here to make sure your pet’s routine stays as normal as possible. Our pet carers provide feeding, walks, and companionship, so your pet always feels at home, even when you’re not.
Autumn should be a breeze for you and your pet
A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your pet safe and comfortable during Autumn. From managing allergies to keeping up with flea prevention and avoiding toxic foods, these pet safety tips during Autumn will help your pet enjoy the season without trouble.
And if you need a helping hand, whether it’s regular pet sitting, dog walking, a last-minute weekend away, or just a daily check-in, Lonely Pets Club is here. We care when you’re not there.
Need a pet carer this Autumn? Book a pet sitter today and keep your pet happy, healthy, and cared for.