“And all at once, summer collapsed into fall.” – Oscar Wilde (Maybe not just yet in Texas!)
As the summer is coming to an end, we will start to welcome all things fall!
There are a few things to keep in mind during the month of October:
Halloween for starters! Who doesn’t love to see a pug in a pumpkin costume? If you decide to dress up your pet for Halloween, make sure their costume is comfortable and doesn’t restrict movement. Also, be aware of the small puffy, cutesy parts that can
become a chew toy when you aren’t looking!
As we all know, pets can’t have chocolate! Keep the Snickers bars and Reese’s peanut butter cups off the counters and away from our four legged friends. Some candies and treats can contain an artificial sweetener called Xylitol This is also toxic to cats and dogs. Best practice is to seal up your Halloween candy stash and place it in a safe place and away from your pets.
Halloween can also be a scary and stressful time for pets too. The doorbell is ringing, there is lots of commotion outside, people look different in costumes and masks. Animals can be afraid of things they don’t know or recognize. Have you ever put on a new hat and your dog took a step back before they realized who you were? Multiply that times a thousand on Halloween! Keep your pets in a quiet and secure place so the don’t feel anxious or try to escape your front door when you are handing out candy.
The holidays are right around the corner. Start thinking about your holiday plans, especially if you will be traveling. Let your pet sitter know dates, book your boarding ahead of the rush, or call in a favor from a friend. You don’t want to be scrambling trying to find somewhere safe for your pets to go while you are enjoying a holiday trip. Remember most boarding facilities will require your pet’s vaccines to be current. Some facilities will require an Influenza.’
Tips from Dr. B
Fleas and ticks are still active and alive in October. Make sure to keep your pet’s on their heartworm and flea/tick preventions year round!
Watch out for sticks! Our dog’s love to chew them but occasionally they can become a hazard. They can cause blockages, splinter off and get stuck in their teeth or mouth or even cause irritation to the throat and trachea. Just be aware.
The start of fall can be a beautiful time for outdoor activities with your pet. Get outside, take a walk, spend some time in the yard and just enjoy the nice weather.
Don’t forget to come visit us at our open house on Saturday, October 21st from 3-6p. We hope to see you all there! There will be a costume contest, so wear your spookiest costume! Thanks for being a part of the Watermark family! We are here for you when you need us! #WVH
