Autumn walks with your dog

Cooler air, colourful paths and quieter places can make autumn one of the best seasons for walking. This is not a list of reasons to worry: a little awareness is usually all that is needed for a relaxed day out.

Listing review dates and evidence types are shown below · Confirm important policies before travelling

BEFORE YOU GO

Helpful details before you visit.

Enjoy the cooler conditions

Many dogs are more comfortable in fresher weather. Carry water, let older dogs warm up gently and match the route to the daylight and ground conditions.

PDSA autumn advice ↗

Be visible after dusk

Use reflective or light-up dog gear, bright clothing and a torch. Keep your dog on a standard lead near roads and check that tag and microchip details are current.

Blue Cross dark-walk advice ↗

Look beneath fallen leaves

Leaves can hide glass, holes and uneven ground, while wet slopes and bridges can be slippery. Slow down where footing or visibility is poor.

Leave acorns, conkers and fungi alone

Do not use conkers or acorns as toys and prevent dogs eating unknown mushrooms. If something is swallowed, photograph it if safe and call your vet for advice.

Blue Cross acorn guidance ↗

Choose fresh water

Bring drinking water rather than relying on puddles or stagnant pools. Avoid discoloured or scummy water, rinse muddy paws and contact a vet immediately after suspected antifreeze exposure.

PDSA antifreeze guidance ↗

Finish with a quick check

Check paws, ears, armpits and the neck for cuts, seeds and ticks, then dry wet coats and paws. As fireworks season approaches, walk earlier where possible and keep a calm home routine.

Blue Cross fireworks advice ↗