Grey, wet and dark - autumn is often underestimated. Yet this time of year is full of special moments: Colorful forests, golden light and walks through rustling leaves make it something very special. There are also plenty of beautiful things for you and your four-legged companion to discover in the fall. We have put together a few helpful tips for you so that you can enjoy the time to the full.
From: Alena Thielert
Checked: Veronica Hajek
With the onset of autumn, autumn grass mites also appear more frequently. They can cause severe itching in your dog and lead to reddened paws. The tiny parasites feed on skin components and blood, their larvae remain on their host for 2 to 10 days and then fall off by themselves. Nevertheless, affected four-legged friends should be treated immediately, as constant licking and biting can lead to infection. Autumn grass mites can be recognized by their orange-red colouring. In the event of an infestation, it helps to wash the paws thoroughly and cool itchy areas. Inflamed or weeping skin should definitely be examined by a vet. You can prevent infestations by keeping the grass in the garden short and using suitable veterinary products against ticks and fleas.
Some dogs love to play with chestnuts - but this can be dangerous if they swallow a chestnut. This can get stuck in the esophagus or intestines and, in the worst case, cause an intestinal blockage. Removal is often only possible by surgery, which is stressful for both dog and owner. In addition, unripe chestnuts and acorns contain poisonous substances that can lead to poisoning. Caution is also advised with mushrooms: Many wild mushrooms are poisonous to dogs. Even small amounts can cause gastrointestinal complaints or even serious health problems.
So if your walk takes you past lots of chestnut and oak trees or through mushroom forests, it's safer to keep your dog on a lead.
Autumn is the start of shedding. It is therefore quite normal for your four-legged friend to shed a lot during this time. You can help him by brushing him regularly - this removes loose hair and ensures a healthy, shiny coat.
Small and short-haired dogs in particular can quickly become cold during the shedding period. A warm and water-repellent dog coat reliably protects them from the cold and wet. And if your furry friend is outside for a longer period of time, you should definitely provide them with an insulating pad to prevent them from getting cold.
After a nice autumn walk, it's worth checking your furry friend's paws carefully - and not just because of autumn grass mites. Also look out for small twigs, chestnut thorns and other foreign objects that can get stuck in the paw pads and cause discomfort. Especially in the fall, moisture and mud can easily collect in the coat, which can irritate the skin and lower your dog's body temperature. It is therefore particularly important to dry your furry friend thoroughly - especially on the chest, belly and paws.
In the fall, the days get shorter again, so many walks now take place at dusk or even in the dark. This makes it all the more important that your dog is clearly visible - for your safety and to avoid accidents. Luminous applications on the collar and reflective materials on the lead, harness or clothing ensure that he is reliably recognized even in low light.
Shorter daylight hours and cooler air dampen the urge to be active - many dogs get tired more quickly and sleep more in the fall than in the summer. This is usually a natural change of rhythm. You can support your four-legged friend by creating clear routines, offering cozy resting places and making the walks quieter but more substantial. On rainy days, a shorter walk is often sufficient if you keep your furry friend busy indoors with suitable activity ideas.
If the drowsiness persists and other symptoms are added, you should seek veterinary advice.
Due to the change of coat and adaptation to lower temperatures, many dogs consume more energy in autumn and are correspondingly hungrier. If this applies to your four-legged friend, adjust the amount of food moderately and monitor their figure and weight closely.
However, if the increased appetite is accompanied by weight loss, restlessness or other conspicuous symptoms, the cause should definitely be clarified by a vet.
In autumn, temperatures often fluctuate greatly: anything is possible, from just over 20 degrees to single-digit values. Such fluctuations can also put a strain on our dogs immune system , meaning that respiratory diseases or gastrointestinal problems are not uncommon in the fall. You can support your four-legged friend's immune system - and your own - with ourGolden Paste . Another immune booster that is perfect for autumn walks is our VEGGIES immune with sea buckthorn and turmeric.
Have fun making it - and enjoy it! We wish you a wonderful autumn full of bright colors, golden sunshine and exciting discoveries.
Alena Thielert
