On October 29th the clocks will be set to winter time: FOUR PAWS gives tips on how to prepare your pet for the new daily rhythm and stay safe even in the dark season.
Hamburg. It's already getting dark around 6 p.m. in the evening. When the clocks are set back one hour on the night of October 28th to 29th this year, the dark season has finally begun. With dwindling daylight and falling temperatures comes the fall season, a time of change that also impacts pets. The global animal welfare organization FOUR PAWS shares advice on how you can best prepare your pet for autumn and enjoy this season together.
Prepare slowly for the time change
“Most pets have fixed routines; dogs and cats in particular have become accustomed to certain routines. In the week before the time change, it is advisable to carefully prepare your pet for it by delaying feeding times, walks and rest periods by around ten minutes every day,” recommends Andrea Weber, coordinator for responsible pet ownership at FOUR PAWS.
Beware of chestnuts and sticks
Autumn parks and forests are peppered with chestnuts, which many dogs find fascinating. “It's important to be vigilant if your dog starts playing with chestnuts. These brown fruits can be easily swallowed, which can lead to a life-threatening intestinal obstruction,” warns the pet expert. Particular caution is required when it comes to horse chestnuts, as both unripe fruits and green seed pods are poisonous and can irritate the dog's mucous membranes. “In the fall, owners should carry a ball with them instead to distract the dog and play safely. Sticks can also cause serious injuries, and a splinter in the lip is the smallest problem,” emphasizes Weber.
Safety and visibility in the dark season
With each passing day the sun loses its power and darkness falls more quickly. During this time it is particularly important that pets are clearly visible. In darkness, fog and rain, reflective collars, chest harnesses and leashes can increase safety. “It is not only important that dogs are clearly visible, but also that their owners stand out in the dark. Flashlights and reflectors are helpful even at dusk,” emphasizes the FOUR PAWS expert. “Not only people and dogs should be visible, but also the leash itself. A dark leash can easily be overlooked by cyclists and become a danger.”