Fall Pet Foreign Objects: Avoiding an Awful Autumn
The changing of the leaves, the cooler weather, and the familiar smell of a bonfire are welcome signs of the season for many. For pets this also means more time enjoying the outdoors due to the wonderful temperatures.
When your pet heads outside this autumn, Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates wants to be sure that you are cognizant of potential hazards that may be lurking in the gorgeousness that is Michigan. Fall pet foreign objects are a real danger for curious critters, but by knowing what you need to avoid you can ensure an awesome autumn.
Fall Pet Foreign Objects to Avoid
There are some things that are just not made to be eaten. A large number of fall pet foreign objects to avoid are dangerous simply because, once ingested, the body isn’t able to handle the object.
Non-digestible items can become stuck at any point in the digestive tract. A partial or full blockage can block the flow of normal digesta through the gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dehydration. Oftentimes the blockage must be surgically corrected so that sepsis and/or rupture of the intestines does not occur.
Fall pet foreign objects that can pose a danger of causing an obstruction include:
- Acorns
- Cobs of corn (think of decorative Indian corn that may be outside)
- Large volumes of organic matter such as leaves or straw
- Pieces of large sticks that can be chewed off
- Fallen fruit
- Bird seed or suet (suet cages can also pose a danger to hungry dogs)
If you suspect that your pet has ingested something that shouldn’t have been eaten, don’t delay in letting us know right away. With quick action, many times trouble can be avoided.
Toxic Tendencies
Some fall pet foreign objects go beyond causing a physical obstruction and actually have toxic properties. It is best to remove these from areas that your pet has access to whenever possible.
Possibly toxic autumn pet hazards include:
- Mushrooms (many are harmless but some can be fatal, and it can be very difficult to tell the difference)
- Pits or seeds from fallen fruit such as apples
- Flower bulbs
- Compost piles
- Lawn fertilizer
- Weed killers (use pet-friendly lawn care techniques instead)
- Rodenticides (rat/mouse bait)
Be sure to take a look around your yard from your pet’s vantage point and remove any possible problems.
Fall pet foreign objects can be dangerous, but a little bit of caution goes a long way. Do your part to protect your pet, then get out there and enjoy the beautiful Michigan autumn!