Fall has officially arrived! This time of year is full of fun things like apple picking, pumpkin carving, leaf peeping and so much more. However there are also some aspects of autumn that can be dangerous for pets. Keep the following autumn pet safety tips in mind all season long.

1. If your pet will be dressing up for Halloween, their costume should fit well and not impede their movement, sight or breathing.
2. Keep Halloween candy, especially chocolate and those containing xylitol, safely out of reach of pets.
3. When enjoying the great outdoors, steer clear of areas that contain mushrooms which grow significantly during the fall and can be toxic.
4. Watch for ticks which like to hide in leaves. Continue utilizing a tick preventative and check your pets for ticks after spending time outside.
5. When burning candles or using your fireplace, keep a barrier between open flames and your pet.
6. If you are having a Halloween party or Thanksgiving family gathering, plan ahead for how you will keep your pet safe and comfortable throughout the event.
7. Avoid feeding your pet table scraps during holiday meals. It is best to stick to their regular diet at all times.
8. Keep your pet away from corn cobs as they are notorious for causing blockages in the GI tract.
9. If you go on a hike with your pet, stay on well-marked trails and wear brightly colored clothing, especially during hunting season.
10. If your pet is frequently itching or has runny eyes, they may be experiencing fall allergies. Talk to your veterinarian about ways to make your pet more comfortable.

So bring on the pumpkin spice and everything nice. We wish you and your pets a safe and happy fall!