The arrival of autumn brings cooler temperatures, vibrant colors, and the beginning of the holiday season, but it also presents hidden health risks for your dog. However, with awareness and vigilance, you can protect your dog from the dangers associated with the season.

Risk of Infestation by Deer Ticks

Cooler temperatures signal the approach of winter in the deer population, spurring a mating frenzy and an encroachment into populated areas. While the deer themselves pose no real threat to your pet, the ticks with which they are infested may carry Lyme disease, which can infect both pets and their owners.

Deer ticks are smaller than the ticks that are commonly found on dogs, so extra effort is required when inspecting your dog for ticks after a romp in fields or forests. You can help to protect your home and yard by keeping grass and weeds trimmed. Ticks cannot jump, so they cling to tall grasses and transfer themselves to a suitable host when the victim brushes against them.

Risk of Ingestion of Rat Poison

Rats will begin their search for a warmer home inside the homes of your neighbors and yourself, precipitating the placing of rat poison outside in an effort to kill the rats before they can make their way inside. 

However, rat poison doesn't cause instant death; it's a slow death by uncontrolled internal bleeding induced by the powerful anticoagulant in the rat bait. This allows the poisoned rats to travel onto your property, where your dog will happily eat their carcasses.

If your dog exhibits symptoms such as unusual lethargy, pale gums, and blood filled vomit, you must take them to an animal hospital at once. Rat poison ingested in sufficient quantity can kill your pet.

Inside the Home: School Supplies and Holiday Treats

The beginning of the school year means new brightly colored school supplies in the hands of children. Dogs tend to chew and/or swallow just about anything that looks or tastes remotely appealing. Glue sticks and child glue are of special concern because they can cause intestinal issues when consumed and dogs seem to enjoy their taste.

Brightly colored markers and pens, particularly those that are designed to smell like candy, can be swallowed and result in intestinal blockages that require surgical removal.

Halloween treats are often sold before school supplies are on the store shelves, and can pose significant health risks to dogs. Treats containing chocolate and xylitol, an artificial sweetener, are particularly hazardous to dogs.

It's not easy being a parent or a dog owner, but being both is a challenge in autumn as well as any other time of year. Take your dog to a veterinary clinic immediately if you suspect health issues.