Autumn Watch
It's really starting to feel like Autumn isn't it?
As horse and dog owners we're all the more aware of the changing seasons and the challenge that can bring to our daily care routine - and to our pet's health. Our local sycamore trees are loaded with helicopter seeds and when they land they can present a real danger to our four legged friends.
Here are seven things to watch out for on your daily walks:
ACORNS: A staple food for squirrels, these little nuts are toxic for dogs so keep a close eye on your dog to make sure they're not chewing something they shouldn't! Treat conkers with caution too.
BLUE GREEN ALGAE: This highly toxic algae grows in stagnant water and following an intermittently hot and humid summer could be prevalent. Wash your dog off in fresh clean water if they jump into lakes or ponds for a quick dip.
FALLEN FRUIT: It often looks rather tasty and inviting, but fallen fruit which is starting to rot can upset your pet's stomach and cause yet more sickness and diarrhoea. Avoid!
LEAF MOULD: Mulchy Autumn leaves are laced with a toxic mix of bacteria and fungus which, if ingested by your pet, can cause stomach upsets. Clean your dog off carefully to avoid transferring bacteria.
LUNGWORM: If your garden is anything like ours, then slugs are rife this year so watch out! Regular worming can help keen this in check.
TICKS: Reduce the risk of infection from Lyme disease and other infections by checking your dog for ticks after your walk.
ALABAMA ROT: A deadly disease also known as CRGV (cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy) raises it's ugly head in wet weather . Watch our for the appearance of skin ulcers, lethargy, decreased appetite, nausea and vomiting. if in doubt, call your vet.
While the list might seem lengthy there's plenty of fun to be had on a beautiful Autumn day, so keep a close eye on your pet's health, keep them clean and when you've washed off the mud, treat your dog to a pamper session with their #optimuslumina to soothe aching muscles and tired feet.
