Get your dogs and cats ready for the fall season with these helpful tips!
Fall has come to Maryland, and with it comes colder temperatures, the new school year, and the changing of the leaves. Just as human beings prepare and adjust for the fall in different ways, such as with warmer clothing or lotions, so pet dogs and cats need to adjust as well. The fall season brings hazards that an owner should watch out for. Below are some fall pet care tips to keep in mind.
Prevent Ticks
In Maryland, where forests grow plentifully, ticks can be a common concern for humans and pets alike. While most species are most active in summer, some kinds, like the deer tick and the brown dog tick, are active year-round. To prevent ticks from infecting your dog or cat, you can use pet flea and tick prevention medication. To further reduce risk, be sure to clean up your yard of leaf litter and weeds.
Stay Hydrated
Meanwhile, remember to keep your pet well-hydrated! Even though it’s colder, your pet still needs just as much fluid. If you have an outdoor pet, you’ll need a place for it to shelter in the winter and have water that won’t freeze. Deep and wide water bowls are less likely to contain ice.
Beware Toxic Foods
One of the highlights of fall is Halloween. It’s important to keep an eye on your pets at this time, as chocolate and candy are toxic to them. On the other hand, pumpkin can actually be healthy for dogs. Mixing a couple of teaspoons of canned pumpkin into your dog’s food can make for a festive and healthy meal.
Beware of Hazardous Materials
Meanwhile, fall brings out other objects at home that can be dangerous for your pet. Halloween costumes, decorations, and lights can become deadly if chewed, so keep an eye on your pet in this way too. Keep your pet from chewing on school supplies like glue, crayons, writing utensils, etc.
Keep Up the Grooming
Different pet species have different types of fur. Some have a thicker, more waterproof coat, while others are more trim. Some will shed profusely in the fall while the winter coat grows. This transitional time is a good point to pay special attention to grooming your pet.
Keep Your Pet Warm
Lastly, some pets have different tolerances to the cold and may need a winter jacket. If your pet is coming from a warmer location, a temperature shock could be harmful. Keep an eye on your pet, especially if it is very young, old, small, or sick.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!