Autumn Tips for Keeping Your Dog Happy and Healthy

Autumn Tips For Keeping Your Dog Healthy & Happy

As the vibrant colors of autumn roll in, it’s a great time for both you and your dog to enjoy the cool breeze, crunchy leaves, and fresh outdoor adventures. But with the beauty of the season comes a few challenges for our furry friends. Here are some essential tips to keep your dog happy and healthy during autumn.

1. Prepare for Cooler Weather

The drop in temperature can be refreshing for dogs, but some may need extra warmth, especially smaller breeds or those with thin coats. Consider investing in a cozy dog sweater or jacket for walks, especially in the mornings or evenings when it’s colder.

2. Watch Out for Seasonal Hazards

Autumn introduces new potential hazards that dog owners should be mindful of:

  • Fallen Leaves: While fun to play in, leaves can hide sharp objects, insects, or mold, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
  • Mushrooms: Some wild mushrooms that pop up in damp autumn conditions can be toxic to dogs. Keep an eye on where your dog is sniffing and avoid areas where mushrooms grow.
  • Acorns: Acorns and conkers (horse chestnuts) are also toxic if ingested by dogs, leading to digestive upset and, in severe cases, poisoning.

3. Adjust Your Dog’s Diet

As temperatures drop, some dogs may naturally burn more calories to maintain body heat. If your dog is spending more time outdoors or engaging in extra activities, you might need to adjust their food intake to meet their energy needs. However, be mindful of overfeeding, as autumn can also be a time when dogs are less active, which could lead to weight gain.

4. Be Aware of Fleas and Ticks

Although it’s getting cooler, fleas and ticks remain active in autumn, especially in wooded areas or tall grass. Continue your dog’s flea and tick prevention regimen throughout the fall to protect them from bites and possible infections like Lyme disease.

5. Maintain Regular Grooming

Dogs shed their summer coat in preparation for winter, so autumn is the perfect time for regular brushing to help remove loose fur. Grooming also helps improve circulation and skin health, preventing mats and tangles. Bathing should be done as needed, but avoid over-washing, which can dry out your dog’s skin.

6. Hydration is Still Key

Even though the temperature is cooler, dogs still need plenty of fresh water. When outdoors, they may not seem as thirsty as in summer, but they still need to stay hydrated. Ensure water is available at all times, especially after autumn walks or play sessions.

7. Keep Your Dog Active

Autumn offers the perfect weather for outdoor activities like hiking, running, or just longer walks in the park. The cooler weather makes it easier for dogs to enjoy outdoor time without overheating, but be cautious about the amount of daylight. With the shorter days, make sure to walk your dog during daylight hours or use reflective gear for safety.

8. Create a Warm Indoor Environment

When the outdoor chill becomes too much, ensure your dog has a warm and comfortable space inside. Provide extra blankets or a cozy dog bed to snuggle into. If your floors get cold, placing rugs or mats can help your dog stay warm and comfortable.

9. Watch Out for Halloween Hazards

As Halloween approaches, be mindful of chocolate and other candies that are toxic to dogs. Keep treats and decorations out of reach, and if you’re dressing up your dog, make sure the costume is comfortable, breathable, and doesn’t restrict movement or vision.

10. Enjoy Seasonal Fun

Autumn is a great time to bond with your dog through seasonal activities. Go on nature walks, visit a dog-friendly pumpkin patch, or let your dog play in leaf piles (supervised, of course). The cooler weather and stunning scenery make autumn a perfect time for creating new memories with your canine companion.


By following these autumn tips, you can ensure that your dog enjoys the season safely and comfortably. Whether it’s snuggling up indoors or exploring the outdoors, your dog will appreciate the care you take to protect and nurture them as the weather changes.

Signs of Arthritis In Your Dog

One of the most common issues found in older dogs is arthritis. It’s not just something that affects humans, but something that you should try to recognise as a pet owner. When you learn what it looks like in your dog, you can do something about it sooner and help your pet to live a much more comfortable life. 

Education is important as a pet owner and learning to understand when your dog is in pain can help you to put together a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Help from veterinary clinics such as The Moores Orthopaedic Clinic is a good place to begin, but you have to begin at home, too. Yoru dog deserves the best possible care and here are the signs that they’ve been dealing with joint pain and arthritis. 

Image source: Pexels

  1. Your dog is getting older. Older dogs are more prone to development of arthritis due to wear and tear that happens over the years. Dogs are naturally bouncy, happy creatures but the pressure this bounce puts on their bones is a LOT! As they get older, they decrease in their levels of activity and you need to watch out for this because dogs will always slow down before they fully stop. Those physical activities they once enjoyed will no longer be the everyday occurrence in your home and you will notice it pretty quickly. 
  2. They look stiff. Stiffness – especially after resting and sleeping – are common as indicators of arthritis in dogs. You may notice them struggling to get up or limping, moving more slowly and generally having a slowed gait. You might also notice their symptoms more pronounced as they try to move in the morning or in the late evening. If your dog has had a period of inactivity, that will also show a more pronounced limp.
  3. They no longer want to jump or climb. A good sign that your dog is dealing with the pain of arthritis is that they no longer want to jump onto furniture, climb the stairs or attempt to get into your bed anymore. These are activities that require significant movement of their joints but when they’re in pain, that isn’t possible anymore. Pay attention to this if your dog is beginning to avoid doing any of these.
  4. They are starting to walk unevenly. A change in gait is another serious sign of arthritis in your dog. You might notice they walk with a stiff or uneven gait and a noticeable limp. This change in movement can indicate pain and discomfort as they favor other legs over the one that is hurting the most. If you do notice this, booking an appointment with an orthopedic center is important. So that they can be scanned or X-rayed to find out the extent of the damage. 
  5. Their joints are swollen. A physical sign of arthritis in your dog is swelling, especially if those swollen joints are warm to touch. Feeling their joints for any unusual swelling or warmth indicates some inflammation, and it can help you to ascertain whether arthritis is something that they are dealing with. Often this is a symptom that accompanies the pain and discomfort they’re feeling, so book an appointment as soon as you can.

Ensuring Your Pet Sitter Has Pet Sitter Insurance: Why It Matters

Pet Sitter Insurance

As pet owners, our furry friends hold a special place in our hearts and homes. Whether you’re planning a holiday vacation, a weekend getaway, or simply managing a busy work schedule, entrusting your pets to a pet sitter is a common and comforting solution. However, amidst the joy of finding a reliable caregiver for our beloved companions, there’s a crucial question that often goes unnoticed: Does your pet sitter have pet sitter insurance?

The Significance of Pet Sitter Insurance

Pet sitter insurance is more than just a precaution—it’s a vital safeguard that protects both the pet sitter and you, the pet owner, in unexpected situations. Here’s why this insurance is indispensable:

  1. Coverage for Accidents and Injuries:
    • Pets, especially dogs and cats, can be unpredictable. If your pet sitter accidentally injures your pet or if your pet causes harm to others or damages property, pet sitter insurance steps in to cover these liabilities.
  2. Financial Support for Medical Emergencies:
    • Should your pet require medical attention while under the care of a pet sitter, insurance can help cover veterinary bills, ensuring your pet receives necessary treatment promptly.
  3. Protection Against Property Damage and Lost Keys:
    • Insurance provides coverage for scenarios such as lost keys or accidental damage to your property during pet sitting activities.
  4. Professional Liability Coverage:
    • Pet sitter insurance often includes professional liability coverage, safeguarding the sitter against claims of negligence or errors in pet care.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Pet Sitter

When selecting a pet sitter, it’s crucial to prioritize their insurance coverage. Here’s what to look for:

  • Adequate Coverage Limits: Ensure the insurance policy offers sufficient coverage limits to handle potential expenses related to accidents or emergencies.
  • Comprehensive Coverage Details: Verify the specific incidents and situations covered by the insurance policy to understand its scope.
  • Proof of Insurance: Request proof of insurance from your pet sitter and review the policy details to ensure it meets your expectations.

Benefits of Hiring an Insured Pet Sitter

Opting for a pet sitter with insurance provides numerous advantages:

  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that both your pet and your property are protected offers peace of mind while you’re away.
  • Professionalism and Accountability: An insured pet sitter demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to responsible pet care practices.
  • Financial Protection: Insurance coverage mitigates the risk of unexpected financial burdens arising from accidents or emergencies involving your pet.

Conclusion

Choosing a pet sitter who is insured is not only a prudent decision but also a responsible one that prioritizes the safety and well-being of your pets. Before finalizing your pet sitting arrangements, inquire about the pet sitter’s insurance coverage and ensure it aligns with your expectations.

At Scamps & Champs, we understand the importance of transparency and protection in pet care. Our commitment to comprehensive pet sitter insurance ensures that your pets receive the highest standard of care in a safe environment.

Protect your pets and your peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about our pet sitting services and how we prioritize safety through proper insurance coverage.


Explore more about the significance of pet sitter insurance and how it guarantees optimal care for your beloved pets. For additional insights and tips on responsible pet ownership, follow our blog or visit our website.

Peanut Butter and Sweet Potato Dog Treats

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sweet potato puree (you can make this by cooking and mashing sweet potatoes)
  • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (ensure it doesn’t contain xylitol)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup oats (optional for added fiber)
  • 3 cups whole wheat flour or brown rice flour (if your dog has a wheat allergy)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare sweet potato puree: If you don’t have ready-made sweet potato puree, peel and dice a sweet potato. Boil or steam until tender, then mash until smooth. Allow it to cool before using.
  3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the sweet potato puree, peanut butter, and eggs until well combined.
  4. Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the oats (if using) and whole wheat flour, mixing until a stiff dough forms. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough a bit to ensure everything is well mixed.
  5. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  6. Cut into shapes: Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into desired shapes. You can use bone-shaped cutters or any fun shape you like.
  7. Place on baking sheet: Place the cut-out treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are hard and dry.
  9. Cool: Let the treats cool completely before serving them to your dog.
  10. Storage: Store the treats in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Sweet Potato: Rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as potassium and iron, which support digestive health and overall well-being.
  • Peanut Butter: Provides protein and healthy fats, but make sure it doesn’t contain added sugar or xylitol.
  • Eggs: A good source of protein and essential amino acids.
  • Oats: Optional, but they add fiber and can help with digestion.

These sweet potato-based treats are a nutritious and delicious treat for your dog.

Free Pet Journal Ebook

Free Pet Journal Ebook

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The vaccination tracker allows for the recording of your pet's vaccine history, making it simple to remember routine veterinary visits. The training log helps monitor your pet's progress and achievements, while the potty training tracker allows for monitoring your pet's toileting habits.

The weight chart allows you to keep track of your pet's weight fluctuations and make necessary adjustments to their diet and exercise routine. The useful contacts page provides essential contact information for your veterinarian, groomer, and other pet service providers.

The flea and worming tracker allows for easy recall of preventative treatments for your pet, while the notes page provides ample space to jot down any extra information or observations.

Whether you are an experienced pet owner or a newcomer, this pet journal is essential for keeping your pet content and healthy. With its durable cover and user-friendly design, you can be assured that all of your pet's critical information is just a page away. Buy your pet journal now and begin tracking your pet's progress like a pro!
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