Pet Safety In Fall

Now that the weather is visibly cooling down, pets want to spend more time outdoors. But, there are many things to consider before allowing pets the freedom to wander around the great outdoors. For one, pets may encounter other animals when outside; and they will need to prepare for the exchange of barks, growls or (hopefully) wagging tails. They will also need to watch out for ticks which is more of a job for the owner than the pet. 

Pet-Wildlife Encounters

Coyotes may look like dogs; but that doesn't mean they won't attack. When coyotes have a taste for meat, they will attack pets including dogs and cats. They rarely attack humans; but they will encounter them if they feel threatened. Hawks have been known to swoop down on small dogs and cats for feeding time; and of course, bears are always a concern. 

To protect pets from wildlife encounters, it's best to separate them with a pet fence that is both high and strong enough to stop these types of animals. Coyotes can be stopped by a chew-proof steel fence that is 6 feet high; while a hawk can be stopped with a fence that contains a roof. Steel fences aren't strong enough for bears; but an electric fence will zap a response. 

Pet Tick Disease

While ticks are most active in spring and summertime; they are widely seen in the fall season as they search for their next blood meal from hikers, campers and joggers. Some ticks, including the Eastern Black-legged Tick and Lone Star Tick, are aggressive toward humans and pets; and they will burrow into the fur of pets. For pet owners, it's best to routinely check for ticks on pets after bringing them inside for the day. If a tick is found on pets, remove it promptly using a tick remover tool; and take the dog to the vet for Lyme Disease testing. 

Final Thought

Continue checking the EasyPetFence.com blog for more pet safety tips this October during Animal Safety and Protection Month.