Fall Pet Health Tips from a Mobile Veterinarian

With the summer winding down and fall at last arriving, you may be experiencing changes in your own health. In the fall, illnesses such as the common cold, the flu, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) peak in reported cases, so you may be taking extra precautions. However, did you know that your pets also become more susceptible to certain illnesses in the fall?

In this month’s blog post, we’re discussing different illnesses and health conditions to watch out for in your pet throughout the fall.

Seasonal Allergies (And Their Consequences)

Believe it or not, your pets can experience allergies just a severely as humans can. In particular, dogs often struggle with seasonal allergies.

Some common symptoms of seasonal allergies in dogs are:

• Chronic or frequent ear infections (typically accompanied by an unpleasant smell)
• Rashes, red skin, skin infections, or scabs
• Watery, red eyes and irritation
• Itchy skin, irritation, and frequent scratching.

If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, they may have seasonal allergies. Though these aren’t generally considered an emergency, they can lead to health problems down the line if not given proper attention.

Common Fall Illnesses to Watch Out For

As a mobile veterinarian, we here at Creature Comfort notice an uptick in illnesses around this time of year. Here are a few different illnesses to watch out for and signs of each one.

Kennel Cough. Kennel cough is, as you might expect, most often contracted in kennels. However, the increasingly cool temperatures of the fall and winter mean that pets throughout your area will spend more time indoors, where kennel cough thrives. If you notice your dog coughing heavily after visiting with other dogs, you may want to schedule an appointment with a mobile veterinarian.

Respiratory Infections. A combination of illnesses can cause respiratory infections in your pets. Because respiratory infections such as the flu or the common cold can arise in similar circumstances and have similar symptoms, it’s important to get your animal checked if you notice coughing, a lack of appetite, and/or breathing problems.

Fleas, Ticks, and Other Parasites. As more and more leaves pile onto the ground, parasites such as fleas and ticks thrive in the increasingly cool air and shaded environments. For these pests, we recommend using preventative products (such flea collars) in combination with frequent inspections of your animals’ fur.

Request Mobile Veterinarian Services Today

Are you trying to keep your pet healthy despite the season change? If so, then don’t hesitate to schedule a checkup with us. For more information, click here to contact us today.