09/29/2026
🍂 Fall brings cooler walks, colorful leaves, and a few seasonal hazards for our pets. A little preparation can help keep dogs and cats safe while they enjoy the season.
🍄 Check yards and walking areas for wild mushrooms. They can be difficult to identify, and some are highly toxic. Remove mushrooms from areas your pet can access and keep pets from eating them on walks.
💊 Secure human medications. Cold and flu remedies, pain relievers, and prescription medications should be stored where curious paws cannot reach them. Never give a pet human medication unless your veterinarian directs you to do so.
🍬 Keep holiday food out of reach. Chocolate, candy containing xylitol, and cooked poultry bones can cause serious problems. Put treats away promptly and make sure pets cannot get into food scraps or the trash.
🧣 Pay attention to changing temperatures. Chilly mornings and evenings may be harder on puppies, senior pets, and pets with health concerns. Watch your pet’s comfort and adjust outdoor time as needed.
🎃 Choose decorations with pets in mind. Keep cords, small decorative pieces, and anything your pet might chew or swallow out of reach.
🦟 Stay on track with flea and tick prevention. Cooler weather does not automatically mean these pests are gone. Follow the prevention plan recommended for your pet by your veterinarian.
If you think your pet has eaten a mushroom, medication, candy, decoration, or anything else potentially harmful, contact your veterinarian, pet poison control, or a veterinary urgent care facility promptly. You do not need to wait for symptoms to appear.
Wishing you and your pets a safe and happy fall! 🐾🍁