With the crisp fall air and cooler temperatures, dogs are starting to spend more time outside with their owners. But you might want to think twice about letting your dog jump into that big pile of leaves.
Veterinarians warn that being outdoors, including some activities that may seem fun on the surface, can pose unexpected health risks for dogs. British-based veterinary surgeon Joanna Woodnutt says that every year veterinarians injure dogs by jumping into piles of leaves that hide dangerous objects such as sharp sticks, metal fences, rakes and other debris. It is said that he witnessed it. At this time of year, more and more owners in Woodnut let their dogs off their leashes. Because the cool weather allows dogs to run a lot without getting too tired.
“People go to parks and run off-leash,” she said, adding, “It’s surprisingly common for owners to even encourage them to jump over leaves.”
Acorns and fruit that fall from trees can also be harmful to dogs if ingested, Woodnutt warned. During this cold time of year, older dogs also need to be kept warm and comfortable, especially those with arthritis, she said.
“It’s a really picturesque time of year, and while you can get out a little more with your dog, there are some important things to keep in mind when you do,” Ms Woodnutt said.
Inspect piles of fallen leaves for danger
Mr Woodnutt said he had seen a dog get impaled by a sharp object after jumping into a pile of leaves. If a large, sharp stick were to penetrate a dog’s chest or abdomen, it could be fatal, she said.
Similarly, veterinarian Dana Varble told USA TODAY that she sees a lot of dogs coming in with paw injuries and scratches. In the fall, burrs and sticks often get caught in dog fur, which can sometimes require urgent fur trimming.
Dogs can easily get into trouble if they are wandering off-leash in the evening, especially when the sun sets early, Woodnutt said.
Angela Laws runs the popular online pet and house sitting platform Trusted House Sitters, where she personally sits dogs for dog owners in Europe, the UK, Canada, Australia and the US. The law states that it is important to avoid strangers when walking your dog or playing outside.
“There are videos on social media of dogs jumping into leaves, and everyone thinks that’s the best way to have fun,” Laws said. “It would be fun to make your own leaf pile,” she said, warning dog owners to make their own leaf piles.
You can also inspect piles of leaves before letting your dog dive into them, Woodnutt said.
“Not only do you test it in big boots, but you walk around testing it yourself and you don’t feel any sharp edges,” Woodnutt said. “Please move your hand and check.”
Walnuts, the fruit of the tree can be harmful
According to Woodnutt, some acorns and chestnuts that fall on the ground can get stuck in a dog’s intestines, or their cracked shells can release toxins.
Veterinarians say walnuts can also be harmful, as the larger seeds that grow on the tree can grow a mold that is toxic to dogs. Look out for its large, round shape and green, fuzzy outer shell, veterinarians say.
“These are not like store-bought walnuts,” said Varble, chief veterinary officer for the North American Veterinary Medical Association, adding that the mold that grows on walnuts can cause neurological problems if ingested by dogs.
Ripe and overripe tree fruit can also be harmful to dogs.
“Rotten fruit can contain alcohol, which can make dogs intoxicated,” Woodnutt said, adding that he has seen cases where dogs who ate rotten fruit needed treatment for mold poisoning. He added that
Laws said young children should be careful not to throw large balls of acorns when playing with dogs. This is because dogs may mistake them for real toys.
Woodnutt said she once had a dog “sniff” and eat a pile of crabapples on the ground, accidentally swallowing a small green toy ball that resembled an apple in the process. He has had surgery.
Unfortunately, Varble said, “some dogs can be very promiscuous eaters.”
Just like humans, older dogs can get cold sores.
While working as a pet sitter in Manhattan over Christmas break, Laws said she loves taking her dog for long walks in Central Park.
“Alfie was my best tour guide. His walk was around Central Park. It was picturesque and it was snowing. He was having fun playing in the snow.” said Laws, who is based in a small village. It’s called Cove.
Whether your dog is playing in the snow or just running around in the cold, be sure to help him dry and warm up indoors, says Woodnutt.
“Bone pain and joint pain seem to be worse in the fall, winter, and cold weather,” she says. “And a lot of dogs, especially older dogs, have arthritis.”
Whether you’re in the countryside or the city, “walking with a dog is much more fun than walking alone,” Laws says.
To keep your dog happy and healthy during your fall adventures, it’s important to realize that idyllic activities in cold weather aren’t as comfortable as they seem.
