04/09/2026
As summer turns into autumn and the nights draw in, there are many things that change within the environment and things us as dog owners need to be mindful of.
Conkers and acorns - both are toxic (Conkers - aesculin & acorns - tannins) If consumed by dogs they can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain and issues moving (such as shaking).
Whilst we may all be tempted to pop them into the corners of our rooms to ward off any spiders, it’s not advisable if you have pets.
If your dog eats one, it would be best practice to seek medical help with the vet immediately. *Remember this is urgent and shouldn't be left*
Fallen leaves - decaying leaves can contain harmful mycotoxins, fungi and bacteria as they start to rot.
There is also a hidden danger of sharp objects underneath the leaves. This can be coupled up with ticks/fleas and insects that like to hid in damp leaves.
Falling leaves can affect your dog’s tummy and make them quite ill.
If your dog/s like to play in the leaves, maybe limit the time and try not to let you dog/s ingest them.
Speak with your vet and always get their advice if your dog/s have eaten falling leaves.
Fallen fruit - fallen apples and plums ferment and due to their sugar content, they produce ethanol. This can cause severe vomiting and illness if eaten by your dog.
If your dog shows signs of being lethargic, is unstable on their legs, seek immediate veterinary care.
There is also a hidden danger of wasps and bees, as the rotting fruit attracts them due to its sweetness. Speak with your vet and always get their advice if your dog/s have eaten fallen fruit.
Fleas - our friend the flea also makes an unwelcome return as we turn the heating on. The eggs can lay dormant in the carpet and soft furnishings over the summer period but the warmth of the heating wakes them. It’s always good practice to treat your dog for fleas and worms regularly as directed by your vet.
Maybe invest in a household spray and play attention to the edges of carpets where the larvae and eggs will be.
Slugs and snails - slugs and snails love to come out when the weather is damp. They can cause lungworm if ingested by your dog. This is another good reason to keep your pets up to date with flea and worm treatment.
Lungworm can be fatal if untreated. The parasites can travel to your dogs heart and lungs and can cause fatal blockages.
Always try and discourage your dogs from eating slugs and snails and also licking or sniffing their slimy trail. Speak to your vet about routine preventative medicines. Speak with your vet and always get their advice if your dog/s have eaten a slug or snail.
Mushrooms and toad stalls - these make an appearance in autumn. The UK has a wide variety of native fungi. If digested these can cause violent vomiting and you should seek veterinary advice immediately. A mushroom can cause a dog’s heart rate to fasten and in turn can cause seizures and death.
If you are feel your dog has ingested any fungi whilst out on a walk, try and collect a sample, take that along with your dog immediately to the vets. *Remember this is urgent and shouldn't be left*
Antifreeze - as we prepare for winter, a lot of us will start to use antifreeze. Antifreeze is ethylene glycol and is sweet to taste, so dogs will easily lick it. Antifreeze is toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure.
If you suspect your dog has consumed antifreeze then you should treat this as an emergency and seek help immediately. Antifreeze should never be left where your dog can access it. Even a small amount can be very dangerous to dogs. *Remember this is urgent and shouldn't be left*
Salt - salt used to clear ice can cause your dog’s paw pads to crack, become sore and even get infected. Salt of this kind can also be toxic to dogs if consumed and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.
In some cases, it can be so severe it can cause seizures and/or death.
A common way dogs consume salt is by licking their pads. Best practice is to wash your dog’s paws when returning home from a walk, especially when you may have encountered salt on your route.
This not only prevents them from licking their paws but also helps to stop infection or any salt toxicity. This could become part of your daily routine when walking in autumn and winter - it is better to be safe than sorry. Speak with your vet and always get their advice if your dog/s has ingested a volume of salt.
Obviously, we all enjoy the seasonal change and the colours. However, as we are out and about enjoying nature in all her splendour, watch out for the hidden dangers so our dogs remain safe and well.
Even if you feel your dog/s seems fine and isn't showing any signs of being unwell but you know that they may of ingested one of the above, then a call to the vets is always best practice. They can give you guidance and advise that may be life saving.
All views and opinions are my own. If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s dog you should seek advice from a professional veterinary surgeon or practice.
