Points on Pets

Enjoying the Pleasures of Autumn with Your Pet

In the early days of autumn, just as most of us welcome the cool relief from the heat of summer, furry animals also enjoy what it has to offer. Moderate temperatures are a boost to outdoor activity with our pets; however, this increase in outdoor activity can create safety concerns. To keep your pet free from sickness or injury, keep these tips in mind.

Supervise Exercise in Reduced Daylight

As the days grower shorter, owners who walk their pets in the early mornings and evenings could find it more difficult to see other animals, people, and cars in driveways, sidewalks, and roads. People working in emergency veterinary practice have noticed an increase in the cases of dogs and cats suffering injuries from being hit by a car during daybreak or twilight hours. If you exercise your pets during these hours, wear reflective gear and keep control of them with a leash or harness. Always make sure they are microchipped, and that their tags are current in case they go missing.

Keep Shedding at Bay

Shedding is natural process, especially in the fall due to an animal ridding itself of old hair to make room for its winter coat. To minimize pet hair on furniture and clothes, brush your pet weekly, if not daily. Excessive shedding, however, is not normal, and can be a sign of an allergic reaction. If you suspect your pet is suffering from an allergy, consult your veterinarian.

Watch for Signs of Allergies

The fall’s refreshing relief from summer’s heat is an ideal time to increase outdoor exercise for your pet. Open air activity also creates unavoidable exposure to trees, grasses, and pollens which are the major source of allergens. The following are signs that your pet may be suffering from seasonal—and often painful— allergies and should be treated by your veterinarian: • obsessive paw licking and face rubbing, caused by chemicals in the immune system triggered by allergies; • scratching or biting, a natural reaction to itchy and inflamed skin; • difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing (these respiratory issues are often symptomatic of allergic bronchitis or feline asthma); • chronic ear infections— distinguishable by head shaking and red, waxy ears; • excessive shedding, hair loss, and dandruff, which can be treated with prescription medications; and • inflamed skin or lesions—a serious side effect of allergies and more common in cats.

While some of these symptoms, such as the skin lesions or itching might be temporarily relieved with applications of witch hazel, cool tea bags or coconut oil, be sure to seek treatment from your veterinarian as soon as possible.