HOLISTIC HEALTH FOR AUTUMN

The nights are longer, the leaves are turning…are you getting down and snuggling up on the sofa with your pets? DON’T! Get out there are enjoy Autumn!

AUTUMNAL EXERCISE!

Most dogs LOVE Autumn….leaves to play with, cooler weather to run around and damp ground that really holds the smells of all those foraging beasties. Do take care though to ensure old or thin coated dogs are protected from really cold or wet weather using a comfy coat. Check out piles of leaves for hidden dangers before you and the dog pile into them and do some recall training to ensure your dog doesn’t go off in pursuit of wildlife or gamebirds.

Cats may not be so convinced to leave the fireside but tempt them outside for a run about with an interactive toy – try some feathers on a string.

Rabbits and guinea pigs will be ok outside for now but remember guinea pigs are from a hotter climate than rabbits so may need bringing into the house or a shed earlier. Neither like rain much so ensure their runs have shelter.

AUTUMNAL EATING!

Raw fed dogs may start to appreciate root vegetables in their food. These contain more sugars and starches which we all seem to crave in the winter. Avoid them in dogs prone to weight gain, wet skin conditions and lipomas. Try to prevent your dog tucking into fungi on walks as they may be toxic.

As cats are often less active in winter adjust their feeding to prevent obesity. And maybe introduce active feeding to get them moving more.

Check any leaves and fruits falling into rabbit or guinea pig runs are not toxic and provide scatter feeding and hay in the run when grass growth slows. Keep checking bottoms for flystrike on mild days.

AUTUMN M.O.T?

The colder weather can trigger health problems in any animal. Your pet may show increased stiffness with arthritis or a cough on cold mornings if there is an underlying lung condition. It’s a good idea to get any minor changes checked out by your vet as early diagnosis increases the treatment options, both holistic and conventional.

AUTUMN T.L.C!

The longer evenings are great for spending a bit of extra time on grooming and trick training. Grooming is especially important as burrs can get caught in the coats of longhaired dogs and cats and can cause painful sores. Training your pet (whatever type!) a new trick will help the evenings fly by and improve your bond and as studies have shown health benefits from the pet-owner bond you may even be helping to stave off winter coughs and colds!