Fall Pet Safety in Salinas: Seasonal Hazards Dog and Cat Owners Should Know

Fall brings cooler temperatures, seasonal celebrations, and more time outdoors with pets. It can also introduce hazards that dog and cat owners may not immediately recognize. At Animal Hospital of Salinas, we encourage pet owners to stay aware of common seasonal risks so they can help keep their pets healthy throughout autumn.

Watch What Your Pet Finds Outdoors

Fall walks and backyard play can expose curious pets to mushrooms, plants, wildlife, and other unfamiliar objects. Wild mushrooms are especially concerning because it can be difficult to tell harmless varieties from toxic ones. Some toxic mushrooms can cause serious gastrointestinal, neurologic, liver, or kidney problems.

Keep dogs on a leash when exploring unfamiliar areas and check yards regularly for mushrooms or other objects your pet may try to eat. Cats that spend time outdoors should also be monitored when possible.

Keep Seasonal Foods Out of Reach

Fall gatherings and Halloween can mean more candy, baked goods, and snacks around the house. Chocolate is a well-known danger, but dog owners should also watch for products containing xylitol, sometimes labeled as birch sugar. This sweetener can be found in some sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods, and other products and can cause a rapid, potentially life-threatening drop in a dog's blood sugar.

To reduce food-related emergencies, keep these common hazards away from pets:

• Chocolate and candy
• Sugar-free foods containing xylitol
• Grapes and raisins
• Onions and garlic
• Alcohol
• Cooked bones and fatty table scraps

Secure trash cans after gatherings as well. Dogs and cats may investigate discarded food, wrappers, bones, or other items that can cause poisoning, choking, or intestinal blockages.

Be Careful With Rodent Control Products

As temperatures cool, rodents may begin seeking shelter indoors, which can lead homeowners to use rat or mouse poisons. Rodenticides can be highly toxic to pets and may be dangerous or fatal if ingested. ASPCA recommends keeping these products completely inaccessible to animals.

If you need pest control around your Salinas home, carefully review product labels and consider asking a veterinarian about pet safety before placing chemicals or bait where pets may have access.

Check Garages and Driveways for Antifreeze

Vehicle maintenance can create another seasonal pet hazard. Antifreeze containing ethylene glycol is highly toxic to pets, making even spills important to address immediately. Keep automotive products tightly sealed and stored where pets cannot reach them.

Know When to Call Your Veterinarian

Vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, tremors, difficulty walking, unusual behavior, breathing problems, or seizures can be signs of poisoning or another medical emergency. If you know or suspect that your pet has eaten something potentially toxic, do not wait for symptoms to appear before contacting a veterinarian.

Prompt veterinary attention can be especially important when the substance or amount consumed is unknown. Our team can help determine the appropriate next steps based on your pet's symptoms and circumstances.

For compassionate veterinary care and fall pet safety guidance, contact Animal Hospital of Salinas in Salinas, CA at (831) 346-0600 to schedule your pet’s visit.