HELP YOUR DOG ADAPT TO THE FALL SEASON

THU, 22 OCT 2015 BY LINDA ROSADO

The falling leaves, cooler weather and crisper air are some signifiers of the fall season, but when Halloween comes around, you know that autumn’s in full swing. Aside from pumpkin patches popping up and weather changing, November is a turning point for changes in dogs as well. As you bundle up for the lower temperatures, make sure to keep your pup warm too. During this time, you may experience allergies; the fall season might also provoke allergies in your dog. When you’re basking in the ideal, cool weather and celebrating the holidays, it’s important to prepare your dog to make the transition from summer to fall smooth and easy.

GROOM YOUR DOG FOR FALL

In the spring and fall dogs typically shed their fur, although for different reasons. The summer coat is shed in the fall so that a thicker, heavier fur can take its place for winter. For certain types of dogs, like “double-coated” breeds, this means two layers of fur: the first is a long, course coat while the second is a soft undercoat. How much your dog will shed depends on its breed. No matter what kind of dog you have, it’s important to regularly comb and brush your canine companion to tame its fur and prevent hairs from covering your entire house, at least as best you can. Otherwise, you’ll need disposal bags to clean up the stray furs that have fallen off your dog.

FALL BENEFITS AND PROBLEMS FOR YOUR DOG

The time for jack-o’-lanterns may be on its way out, but that doesn’t mean that pumpkins are too. Autumnal activities almost exclusively feature the pumpkin; and it can fun and healthy for you and your dog. Pumpkin, fresh or canned, can put some extra fiber in your dog’s diet. Don’t worry about the seeds—they’re safe for your dog to eat. The cooler months also bring certain types of apples in season, but your furry friend should best stay away. Apple stems, leaves and seeds could disrupt your dog’s digestion and cause a variety of side effects, including death. If there’s a child in your family, you’ll want to keep back to school supplies, especially glue, hidden as it can greatly upset your dog’s stomach.

The start of the fall season isn’t all about preventing your dog from consuming ill-advised materials. Now that the sun isn’t flaring up at maximum temperatures, you can be outside more with your dog in more enjoyable weather. If it’s cold where you live, don yourself and your furry friend in warmer clothes, grab disposal bags, and get their legs moving outside. If it’s been awhile since you and your dog have played outdoors, go over basic commands you’ve taught them, as they might be a little rusty.

No matter what you and your dog do as a fun, autumnal activity, we hope you keep yourself, and your dog, safe and smoothly adjust to the fall season.