Autumn warning as dogs drawn to 'highly enticing and toxic' hidden hazard

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 22:  Three women walk with a dog in Richmond Park on September 22, 2016 in London, England. Today marks the first day of autumn, also known as the autumn equinox, where night and day are equal. (Photo by Jack Taylor/Getty Images)
-Credit: (Image: Getty Images)


Taking your dog for a brisk autumn walk, basking in the golden light, blue skies and changing leaves is one of the season's most delightful aspects.

However, according to animal experts, a serene autumnal stroll can quickly become 'perilous' due to the unexpected hazards that accompany the season. As trees change colour and shed their leaves, our four-legged friends may also be drawn to dangerous items scattered on the ground.

Woofz, a dog and puppy training app, reveals that over 60% of British families spend more time outdoors with their pets during autumn, often unknowingly exposing them to life-threatening dangers hidden in parks.

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Annie-Mae Levy, a professional dog trainer at Woofz, has provided some advice to help dog owners avoid unnecessary vet visits. She highlights some commonly overlooked dangers in parks and gives tips on how to keep your furry friend safe.

For instance, she warns that rat poisons can be just as alluring - and hazardous - to dogs as they are to rodents, reports the Mirror, reports the Daily Record.

The hidden dangers to dogs found in parks

1. Rodent poison

As the sun retreats, rodents look for warm places to shelter from the colder weather. Park management often uses poisonous bait to deter them from rubbish bins, storage sheds, and toilet facilities but it's frequently highly attractive and highly toxic to dogs as well.

Before setting your beloved pooch loose in a park, it's vital to check with the management regarding which substances are used and where. Steer clear of bait stations and keep activated charcoal available at home for emergencies.

2. Acorns and chestnuts

A woman walks her dog past the ponds in St James's Park in central London on November 22, 2021. (Photo by Niklas HALLE'N / AFP) (Photo by NIKLAS HALLE'N/AFP via Getty Images)
Two important words to use: "leave it" -Credit:AFP via Getty Images

The tree-shedding season lays down a carpet of nuts, acorns, and chestnuts that can be both choking hazards and toxic some may even cause digestive issues or severe organ damage. To protect your pet, instil a strong "leave it" command, and if you're unsure, steer clear of areas beneath oak and chestnut trees.

3. Leaf piles

While leaf piles may seem like fun play zones, they can conceal dangers such as glass shards, metal pieces, hedgehog nests, or ticks. It's best to walk on clear, well-kept paths until the fallen leaves are gone.

Should you explore rougher terrain, dog boots can offer your pet extra paw protection.

4. Wildlife

With autumn's arrival, animal behavior shifts: squirrels prepare for hibernation, deer search for mates, potentially making them more temperamental. For the safety of your pets and local wildlife, use a short leash in recommended areas, carry a dog whistle to prevent chases, and leash your dog unless their recall is reliably sound.

Bear in mind, a dog whistle will only be effective if your dog has been trained to respond to it!