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Our Pets

HAVE AN AWESOME AUTUMN AND KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE

By Libby Williams MHAO AHDip Animal Healer and Holistic Therapist www.libbywilliams.co.uk info@libbywilliams.co.uk 07966 639671

As the days start to shorten and the light nights become a thing of the past, our environment changes and the fallen leaves create a carpet of golden browns for us to admire and our pets to run through and play in.

Fallen leaves bring new hidden dangers for our furry friends, there can often be a lot of debris under leaf litter such as broken glass. Cuts and grazes are quite common in the Autumn and although they are often painful for your pet it won’t always be apparent that they are hurting. Its good practice to check your dogs and cats once they come in from a walk, check their pads and in-between their toes as well as a good once over to make sure that they haven’t got anything stuck in their fur or skin.

Ticks can become active again in the cooler Autumn months and Fleas hide in fallen foliage so can easily be picked up by your cat or dog, keep a regular watch for any unwanted guests that your pet may be hosting.

Kids often like to play with Conkers and you yourself may have even put some in your house to keep spiders away. Conkers and Acorns are actually toxic to dogs so take care if you have them in your home and when you are out and about, especially if you have a puppy because they like to explore the world with their mouth.

Fireworks can be very scary for some pets, loud bangs, flashing lights and other unfamiliar sounds. Fireworks actually create a vibration; humans aren’t aware of this but animals can feel them and it can be terrifying for some. Keep your pets indoors, make them a little den, a safe and comfortable place to hide. You can also turn the TV up slightly and close blinds and curtains to help take their mind off what’s going on outside. It’s a good idea to walk and feed your pet before it gets dark and if you have a dog that needs to go out in the garden make sure that you stay with them, not only to reassure them but to keep them safe. Make sure you check that the gates are closed as dogs may bolt and if you are opening doors ensure that your pet is securely inside and can’t dart out.

Hedgehogs and other wildlife hide underneath piles of leaves and wood so if you build a bonfire, do so just before its lit to ensure that there are no animals hiding inside. It’s not just wildlife to consider as cats and other pets can sneak in too, if you leave the bonfire unsupervised then check it again before lighting.

There’s lots of fun to be had at this time of year, with Halloween, Bonfire night and other seasonal activities. Why not brighten up your pet’s day too by coming up with some fun indoor games to play with them, get the kids involved too. You could make them some fresh fun nutritional treats, there’s lots of ideas on the internet. Not only will they be a treat but will also provide you pets with some extra vitamins to help support their immune system as winter approaches.

Have an awesome autumn and keep your pets safe!

If you are ever concerned about your pet always consult your veterinarian, it’s a good idea to have an annual check up to ensure that your pet is fit and healthy.