Tips for keeping your dog safe this autumn

Watch out for these hidden hazards when taking your dog for an autumn walk.

• Toxic mushrooms and fungi — not every mushroom is worth a sniff. Autumn is prime mushroom season, and while many are harmless, some fungi can be toxic to dogs if eaten. Some species are difficult to differentiate, so it’s safest to prevent your dog from eating any mushrooms they find while out exploring.
• Acorns and conkers — nature's toys are best left where they fall. They might look tempting, but acorns and conkers can be harmful if eaten. As well as potentially making dogs unwell, their size and shape means they can cause a dangerous blockage if swallowed, so stick to dog-safe toys for games of fetch.
• Rotting and mouldy fruit — one autumn snack they should skip. Windfall fruit is everywhere in autumn, but don’t let your dog tuck in. Mould growing on rotting food can be toxic, while some pips and stones can cause sickness or create a dangerous blockage if swallowed.
• Slugs and snails — don’t let curiosity become a mouthful. A curious sniff is one thing, but don’t let your dog eat slugs and snails, or lick their slime trails. They can carry parasites that are harmful to dogs, so keep an eye on what your dog is investigating, particularly in damp areas where they’re more likely to appear.
• Ticks — give them a post-walk once-over. Ticks can be found throughout the year but are very common during autumn. These tiny parasites can attach themselves to dogs and may transmit disease or cause irritation – so regularly check your dog for ticks after walks, particularly after exploring long grass or wooded areas.