Written by Rachel Holly
Fall is the favorite season for many folks. And why not? The summer swelter is over, the nights are cooler, the trees turn a brilliant array of color, and the scents of pumpkins and apples fill the air. It’s an especially pleasant time in the Middle Tennessee region and you’ll probably want to enjoy it by taking your dog to the park, on long walks, and visiting the local festivals and fairs. Just remember that many of these fall favorites and holiday goodies of ours can present a danger to your furry friend. As we progress through autumn, keep on the watch for these hidden fall pet safety hazards.
Food
When fall arrives we reach for seasonal favorites that may be great for us, but dangerous for our pets. Keep your pets away from:
Nuts – Especially macadamia nuts which are toxic; this includes foods that contain nuts like cookies and peanut-covered caramel apples.
Apple seeds– Apples are not toxic, but their seeds are.
Baked goods– Pies, cookies, and breads can contain spices and ingredients that are toxic to pets. Keep in mind, these goodies smell as good to them as they do to us, so keeping them completely out of their reach is important.
Hot drinks– keep the hot cocoa, coffee, mulled wine, and pumpkin spice latte out of reach.
Onions / Garlic – Toxic to pets, these common ingredients are used in numerous fall favorites like soups, casseroles, and Thanksgiving dressing.
Bones– Cooked bones used in soups should never be given to dogs to chew on; they can break off and splinter.
Plants
As the weather cools, plant lovers often bring plants indoors to protect them from the cold temperatures at night. Likewise, flowers and plants are often used for table centerpieces. While these may add to the feel of a room, many plants are toxic to dogs and cats. The ASPCA has a comprehensive list of plants pet owners should not have in their home.
Halloween
While any candy can present a choking hazard to our pets, be particularly careful with chocolate and sugar-free candies sweetened with xylitol. Both chocolate and xylitol are toxic and potentially fatal to dogs and cats. Halloween costumes can also have small parts and embellishments that are harmful if swallowed.
Candles & Potpourri
Fall is the season for cozy, and many people like to bring out those pumpkin candles and spice infused potpourri. Opt instead for pet-friendly flameless candles which give you the ambiance without the risk of serious injury or fire. For pets that have respiratory issues, these scented products can exacerbate the problems they already have. Potpourri not only presents a choking hazard, but is usually treated with scented oils that can be toxic. Same does for any fragrance diffuser or sprays.
Fireplaces/Fire pits
Noting like a roaring fire on a chilly night to give a space a comfy cozy feel. And nothing can present a greater danger than your pet getting close to an open fire. You can’t be too cautious when keeping pets clear and away from the fireplace or the fire pit when in use.
Thanksgiving
Let’s face it, this holiday is all about food, food, and more food. But some of your family’s favorite dishes can make your pet very sick. Keep your pets away from:
seasoned turkey and meats
dressing/stuffing
anything with onions
pies
corn on the cob
Keep any celebratory drinks away from pets as well- too much alcohol can be deadly to them as well.
Keep you pets safe this season and it can be a wonderful fall for all.
