As summer fades and September ushers in cooler weather, golden leaves, and muddier walks, it’s not just cosy jumpers and earlier sunsets you need to prepare for, your dog’s health could be at risk too. While autumn is a favourite time for long countryside strolls, the changing season also brings a hidden set of dangers for dogs. From tiny but dangerous grass seeds to toxic mushrooms hiding in the undergrowth, pet owners should be extra vigilant to avoid unexpected trips to the vet, one expert has warned.
Dr Aimee Warner, resident veterinarian at Waggel, a pet insurance company, said: “Autumn is a beautiful time of year, but it also brings with it risks. Grass seeds can cause serious injuries if not addressed quickly, and certain plants that thrive in the season are harmful to dogs if ingested. A little vigilance goes a long way in preventing these health issues. Regular checks after walks, keeping your dog on a lead in high-risk areas, and being aware of common autumn hazards are essential for your dog’s safety.”
1. Grass seeds
These small, barbed seeds are one of the most common culprits behind painful vet visits in autumn, the expert shared. They can become lodged in your dog’s ears, paws, armpits, or fur, and can cause serious injuries if the seeds are not promptly removed.
After every walk, run your fingers between your dog’s toes, behind the ears, and through their fur to check for seeds. Signs like limping, head shaking, or licking a specific area could point to an embedded grass seed. The seeds feel like sharp splinters and must be taken out right away using tweezers, Dr Warner said.
2. Toxic plants: Acorns, conkers and certain mushrooms
September marks the start of mushroom season, and many common varieties found in UK woodlands are toxic to dogs. Toxic mushrooms often have bright or dull caps, white gills, and sometimes a ring on the stem or a bulbous base, and they commonly grow in damp, wooded areas during the autumn. Even small amounts ingested can be deadly. Acorns, conkers, holly berries, and mistletoe can also be harmful if eaten.
The expert warned that green acorns and conkers are especially dangerous during September and October when they’re most likely to fall and be accidentally eaten by curious dogs. Dr Warner advised keeping your dog on a lead in high-risk areas and if you suspect your dog has eaten something poisonous, contact your vet immediately even if symptoms haven’t appeared yet.
3. Temperature risks and hypothermia
Just like with extreme heat, cold weather can pose serious risks to your dog’s health. As temperatures begin to drop, hypothermia is a real concern, especially for smaller dogs or those with thin coats. Dr Warner said your dog should wear a coat if they are under 10kg or with short hair and it is below 7C. If it’s below 0C, make sure you keep walks to 15-20 minutes maximum and watch closely for signs of shivering or lethargy. After time outside, always make sure your dog has a warm, dry place to rest and recover from the cold.
4. Parasites
Even in cooler weather, ticks and fleas remain a threat and can cause serious illnesses like Lyme disease. After walks, check your dog’s fur by running your hands against the grain, focusing on warm areas such as the armpits, groin, and behind the ears where ticks tend to hide. To remove a tick, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp it close to the skin and pull it straight out avoid twisting or squeezing the tick to prevent infection.
Warner added: “The key is knowing exactly what to look for and acting fast. If your dog suddenly starts limping, licking excessively, or showing distress during walks, check for embedded grass seeds immediately. If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic plant, contact your vet within 30 minutes and don’t wait for symptoms to appear.
“Common autumn injuries can be avoided with just a few minutes of checking and care after each walk. These preventive measures not only help avoid vet bills, but also keep your companions safe and ensure those autumn walks remain fun and a great bonding activity.”