A guide to the season’s hazards

Fall is the time of year when people tend to clean up their yards. Keep in mind that there are many potential hazards out there for your pets. First and foremost, store your lawn and garden products in a place that your pets cannot get into. In addition, as you are applying certain products, confine your pets in a safe area. If your pet is exposed to anything that is potentially toxic, contact your veterinarian with the suspected product information as soon as possible. If a trip to the vet is required, be sure to bring the suspect product container along for the vet to inspect.

Did you know that even fruit that has fallen to the ground, fruit pits, berries, seeds, leaves, stems, birdseed, water in the birdbath, fish ponds and animal droppings can be harmful to your pets? Compost toxins are a real risk to pets that like to poke around the bin. These toxins affect the neurological system of a pet and are found in certain types of moldy foods such as grains, nuts, decomposed pasta and rotten dairy products. A good rule of thumb—keep your compost and yard waste in closed containers.

Plants that have lost their leaves in the fall and are bare can pose a hazard to pets’ eyes as they run or play in the yard. Securing the plants with a small barrier until they sprout their leaves next spring can help prevent your pet from cutting or poking itself. Read more about potential hazards in your yard.

Separation anxiety can be a reality for your pets

As the kids head back to school, did you consider that your pet may have to adjust to the changes in the family routine just like everyone else? During the summer, your children and the family pet can develop a strong bond. Now there’s suddenly an empty and quiet house. This change in routine can cause your pet to suffer from separation anxiety or depression from missing your kids—and may even try to follow them to school.

Your pet may experience the effects of the loss of extra playtime and the friendship developed with your children by exhibiting signs of separation through destructive behaviors, such as:

• Chewing furniture
• Ripping the stuffing out of pillows
• Shredding paper
• Obsessive barking/whining/meowing for extended periods of time
• House soiling

Separation anxiety is a serious condition that can be managed with structure and patience. Never punish your pets for exhibiting this behavior, as it will make them more fearful and potentially aggressive. Read the full article on separation anxiety.