9 Ways to Prepare Your Dog for Fall

September marks the start of Fall. As the weather cools and you begin prepping your home, don’t forget to prepare your dog too. There are several things you should do for your dog to have an enjoyable and safe Fall season. I have compiled a list of my top fall to do’s for my dog’s to share with you.

9 Ways to Prepare Your Dog for Fall

1. Fleas and Tick Protection
While summertime is the peak of flea season, and when they are most likely to attack in masses- it is just as important to stay on top of your dog’s treatment all year round. From our previous post: 3 Important Myths About Fleas and Ticks, 1) Fleas thrive above 65 degrees in which they find homes as a perfect winter sanctuary.
2) Ticks find refuge too in warm locations and capable of surviving cold temperatures especially when they are able to find a host to feed from.

So, make sure that your dog’s flea protection is up to date even in cooler temps, your vet will advise you of the best course of action. If you hike and walk your dog through grassy woody areas, a daily tick check is a must.

2. Grooming
As the weather turns colder a dog’s coat begins to thicken up, more fur means more of it around the house. Help your dog and yourself out by brushing them weekly or even daily if needed. This helps your dog get rid of their summer coat and keeps your couches less furry.

I love the Eazee Pet Deshedding Brush and KORU BEAR too. I will explain more about this grooming product in an upcoming blog post.

3. Water Supply
Dogs can get dehydrated in the Winter too; if they don’t get enough water to drink. It is incredibly important to ensure your dog has access to clean drinking water at all times Keep your dog hydrated by using a pet fountain like Petsafe Drinkwell 360.

4. Travel Plans
Fall is a great time to explore new sights with your dog and many hotels accommodate dogs. If you are on a budget, Red Roof offers pet-friendly accommodation where “You Stay Happy, Pets Stay Free!”Remember to keep your dog safe in the car. Sleepypod Clickit Terrain is keeping Koru Bear safe.

5. Bedding
The floor can get quite cool during the Fall months; a place many dogs like to relax. Provide your dog another option by choosing a comfy and well-padded bed. KORU BEAR loves his new “always comfortable” Serta Pets iComfort Sleeper Sofa pet bed.

6. Plants
Fall brings some beautiful plants, but they are not always safe for your dog. Plants like crocus, lilies, mums, and begonias, along with things like wild mushrooms and acorns can be hazardous, even fatal to your dog. If your dog ingested and of these plants, contact Pet Poison Helpline for treatment recommendations, but it is best to seek immediate veterinary care.

7. Fall Wear
For cooler days you might get a light cover/coat for your dog to protect them from the chilly elements. Fleece is a great option, look for easily removable closures like velcro to make putting it on and taking it off easy. Even a thick bandana or cowl neck scarf can help keep your dog warm.

8. Decorations
Take precautions to limit your dog’s exposure to Fall decorations. Many of these fun decorations contain toxic metals and can become choking hazards.

9. TREATS
Fall is a season for apples and pumpkin. Celebrate by making special homemade apple and pumpkin dog treats.
Make Your Own Dog Safe Applesauce
Apple Pumpkin Banana Bones
Make your Own Dog Safe Pumpkin Puree
Frosty Pumpkin
Layered PUMPKIN Frosty Bones
Pumpkin Apple Balls with Toasted Oats

How do you prepare your dog for Fall?