As the leaves change and temperatures begin to drop, fall brings a fresh set of joys and challenges for pet owners in Connecticut. Whether you’re walking your dog through leaf-covered trails or cozying up indoors with your cat, it’s important to adjust your pet care routine for the season.
Here are some essential fall pet care tips to help keep your furry friends healthy, safe, and comfortable during this transitional time of year.
1. Watch the Weather: Cold Temps Can Sneak Up Fast
Fall in Connecticut can be unpredictable. One day it’s sunny and 70 degrees, the next it’s brisk and frosty in the morning. Pets—especially short-haired dogs, senior animals, or those with underlying health issues—may be more sensitive to these fluctuations.
What to do:
- Keep an eye on the forecast before long walks.
- Consider a lightweight pet sweater for smaller or short-haired dogs when temperatures dip below 50°F.
- Limit time outside on cold, wet, or windy days, especially for elderly pets or those with arthritis.
2. Keep Flea and Tick Prevention Going
Many pet owners mistakenly believe that once summer ends, flea and tick season does too. In reality, ticks remain active well into the fall in Connecticut—especially during mild weather or in wooded areas.
What to do:
- Continue using flea and tick preventatives until the first hard frost (and often year-round, as recommended by your vet).
- Check your pets for ticks after walks, especially around ears, neck, and paws.
- Be cautious in leaf piles and brushy trails, where ticks tend to hide.
3. Update Nutrition as Activity Levels Change
Fall often means changes in activity for pets. Some dogs get more walks in the cooler weather, while others become more sedentary as the days grow shorter.
What to do:
- Monitor your pet’s weight and energy levels.
- Adjust portion sizes if your pet is becoming less active.
- Talk to your veterinarian about seasonal diet changes or joint supplements, especially for senior pets.
Bonus tip: Fall is also a good time to review your pet’s annual wellness needs before winter sets in—bloodwork, dental care, or vaccinations can be scheduled in advance of the holiday rush.
4. Beware of Fall Toxins and Hazards
With fall comes a variety of new dangers for pets—some of them surprising. Seasonal items and changes around the home can pose a risk if not carefully managed.
Common hazards to watch for:
- Antifreeze: Highly toxic, even in small amounts. Clean up spills immediately and store containers out of reach.
- Mushrooms: Wild mushrooms pop up in moist fall conditions. Some are toxic to pets—avoid letting them sniff or eat unknown fungi.
- Rodenticides: As temperatures drop, people often use traps or poison to deter mice indoors. These are extremely dangerous to pets if ingested.
- Decorations and candles: Halloween and Thanksgiving décor can tempt curious pets. Keep cords, candles, and small objects out of reach.
5. Grooming Isn’t Just for Summer
You might think grooming becomes less important in the cooler months, but fall grooming plays a key role in keeping your pet healthy.
What to do:
- Brush regularly to remove shedding undercoat, especially for double-coated breeds.
- Keep paws clean and dry after walks—wet leaves, mud, and lawn treatments can irritate or harm paw pads.
- Bathe as needed, but avoid over-washing, which can dry out the skin as humidity drops.
Also consider trimming long fur between paw pads to prevent painful matting or buildup of ice and debris in the winter months ahead.
6. Prepare for Halloween and Holiday Stress
Fall often means a spike in household activity—decorating, hosting visitors, and celebrating holidays. For pets, this can lead to anxiety or exposure to unfamiliar dangers.
What to do:
- Create a safe, quiet space for your pet during Halloween and Thanksgiving gatherings.
- Keep candy, chocolate, and rich human foods out of reach—many seasonal treats are toxic to pets.
- If your pet wears a costume, make sure it’s comfortable, non-restrictive, and free from choking hazards.
7. Shorter Days = More Walks in the Dark
As daylight hours shrink, many pet owners find themselves walking dogs early in the morning or after work in the dark.
What to do:
- Use reflective leashes, collars, or vests to stay visible.
- Bring a flashlight or wear a headlamp on evening walks.
- Stay on well-lit, familiar paths and avoid wooded areas after dusk.
Final Thoughts
Fall in Connecticut is a beautiful time to enjoy the outdoors with your pet—but it also requires some extra care and awareness. By making small adjustments to your routine, staying alert to seasonal hazards, and prioritizing your pet’s comfort and health, you can help your dog or cat enjoy the season safely.
Taking these steps now also helps set the foundation for a healthy winter, especially as your pet’s needs shift with the colder months ahead. We recommend Douglas Animal Hospital.
