Beware of dangers in autumn!

Autumn brings not only colorful leaves and cool temperatures, but also various dangers for dogs. While we enjoy the outdoors, several risks lurk for our four-legged friends. Here are the most important autumn hazards and how you can protect your dog from them.

Beechnuts

Beechnuts, the fruits of the common beech tree, are found on forest floors, especially in autumn. They contain toxins such as saponins and fagopyrin, which can cause health problems in dogs.

Danger:

breathing difficulties

Digestive problems (e.g. vomiting, diarrhea)

Action: Prevent your dog from eating beechnuts and closely monitor him when he is in areas with many beech trees.

chestnuts

Chestnuts may seem harmless, but they can be dangerous for dogs if swallowed. They are difficult to digest and can get stuck in the gastrointestinal tract.

Danger:

Intestinal obstruction due to swallowing large pieces or whole chestnuts.

Action: Make sure your dog doesn't eat chestnuts, especially if he tends to put everything in his mouth. If he shows signs of constipation or discomfort, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Walnuts

Walnuts can be problematic, especially when found in the shell. The shells can contain mold that produces the toxin Roquefortin C.

Danger:

Poisoning by Roquefortin C (symptoms: tremors, seizures, vomiting).

Action: Avoid walking in areas with many walnut trees or make sure your dog does not eat walnuts.

acorns

Acorns contain tannic acid, which is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can have serious health consequences.

Danger:

Symptoms of poisoning (e.g. gastrointestinal problems, vomiting, diarrhea, in severe cases kidney damage).

Action: Make sure your dog does not eat acorns and keep him on a leash in such areas.

Mushrooms

In autumn, mushrooms sprout from the ground, many of which are poisonous to dogs. While some may seem harmless, even small amounts of poisonous mushrooms can have serious consequences.

Danger:

Poisoning from eating poisonous mushrooms (symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, coordination problems).

Action: Do not let your dog roam unattended in forest areas and make sure that he does not ingest mushrooms.

Spines and thorns

Many plants have thorns or spines in the fall that can injure dogs. Blackberry bushes and chestnut trees, with their prickly fruits, are particularly dangerous.

Danger:

Injuries to paws or muzzle.

Action: Check your dog's paws regularly for injuries and avoid areas with lots of thorn bushes.

Rat and mouse poison

With the cooler season approaching, many people begin putting out rat and mouse poison to keep pests away. These poisons are extremely dangerous to dogs and can be fatal even in small amounts.

Danger:

Poisoning (symptoms: bleeding, tremors, weakness).

Action: Avoid areas where poison may have been placed and keep your dog under close supervision at all times. If poisoning is suspected, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Mold on leaves

Moist, rotting leaves provide an ideal breeding ground for mold, which can be toxic if ingested by dogs.

Danger:

Gastrointestinal complaints (e.g. vomiting, diarrhea, weakness).

Action: Prevent your dog from chewing or digging in damp, rotting leaves.

Conclusion

In the fall, many hidden dangers lurk for dogs. By being vigilant and avoiding certain areas, you can protect your dog. If you notice signs of poisoning or discomfort, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian immediately.

Further precautions in autumn:

Check your dog's paws and coat regularly after walks.

Make sure your dog always has enough fresh water available to help eliminate any toxins more quickly.

Avoid letting your dog forage wildly in nature.

This way, autumn can remain a safe and beautiful season for you and your dog!

C. Kaul