Autumn in Southwest, Michigan, means crisp evenings, colorful leaves, and family outings to orchards, football games, and pumpkin patches. While the season is beautiful, it also brings unique challenges for pets. From Halloween candy hazards to fall allergies and lingering parasites, your four-legged friends need extra attention to stay safe and healthy. At Schoolcraft Veterinary Clinic, we are here to share the fall pet care tips every dog and cat owner should know.
Halloween Pet Safety Tips
Halloween is a big event in our community, but the sights, sounds, and sweets can be stressful or even dangerous for pets. Here is what to watch out for:
- Candy Dangers: Chocolate and Xylitol
- Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which overstimulate a pet’s nervous system and heart. Just 1 ounce of dark chocolate could poison a 20-lb dog, and as little as ½ ounce of baking chocolate may be lethal to a 10-lb cat. (These are examples only — toxicity depends on size, health, and type of chocolate.)
- Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in sugar-free gum, candies, and even some peanut butters, causes dangerous blood sugar crashes and, in higher amounts, liver failure. In dogs, 1 gram (≈ ½ stick of sugar-free gum) can trigger a severe drop in blood sugar, while around 5 grams can damage the liver. Cats are also vulnerable, even though cases are less commonly reported.
Key takeaway: There is no safe amount of chocolate or xylitol for pets. Keep them out of reach at all times.
- Clean Up Candy Messes Quickly
Wrappers, sticks, and packaging can choke pets or block intestines. Keep pets out of the room when kids dump their candy piles and remind children never to share sweets with pets.
- Pet Costume Safety
Choose breathable, comfortable costumes that do not limit vision, breathing, or movement. If your pet seems anxious, skip the costume and opt for festive photos with a seasonal backdrop instead.
- Prevent Escapes
With trick-or-treaters at the door, pets can easily slip outside. Make sure collars and tags are secure and confirm your pet’s microchip is up to date. At Schoolcraft Veterinary Clinic, we offer microchipping and can scan or verify your pet’s registration on your next visit.
- Keep Cats Indoors
The noise and activity of Halloween night can frighten cats and increase the risk of escape. Keeping them inside helps reduce stress and keeps them safe.
- If Your Pet Eats Something Dangerous
If you suspect your pet has ingested chocolate, xylitol, or another toxin:
- Call Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 immediately.
- Have your pet’s weight and product packaging ready.
- Follow instructions — the hotline will coordinate directly with us at Schoolcraft Veterinary Clinic or an emergency hospital if needed.
Do not wait for symptoms to appear. Quick action gives your pet the best chance of recovery.
Pumpkin for Pets: A Natural Digestive Aid
Plain, cooked, or pure canned pumpkin (without sugar, spices, or flavoring) is a seasonal superfood for pets:
- Dogs: 1–2 teaspoons daily for small/medium dogs, up to 2 tablespoons for large dogs.
- Cats: About ½ teaspoon mixed into food.
Pumpkin’s fiber helps regulate digestion and stool consistency. October is also National Pet Obesity Awareness Month, making it a suitable time to check your pet’s weight and nutrition plan with us.
Fall Hazards in Michigan
Along with falling leaves, autumn in Michigan brings its share of risks:
- Wild mushrooms — many are toxic or deadly to pets.
- Garden waste — corn cobs, pumpkin rinds, and squash hulls can cause dangerous blockages.
- Compost piles and moldy leaves — often contain harmful toxins.
- Rodenticides and slug baits — these poisons are common in fall and highly dangerous, even in “pet-safe” formulations.
Allergies That Flare in Fall
Michigan’s ragweed pollen, mold spores from damp leaves, and increased dust indoors can trigger seasonal allergies in pets. Watch for:
- Persistent scratching or paw licking
- Sneezing or watery eyes
- Red, irritated skin
- Hot spots or hair loss
Schedule a visit if you notice these signs. We will rule out infections, assess potential triggers, and recommend treatments to bring relief.
Parasites Do Not Quit in Autumn
Even when the weather cools in Michigan, fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes stay active until the first hard frost — sometimes longer. These pests can spread heartworm, Lyme disease, and other illnesses. Keep your pet on parasite prevention year-round and check coats regularly after outdoor activities like hiking or leaf-pile play. To learn more about keeping your pet safe from fleas, ticks, and heartworms, check out our Parasite Control and Prevention page.
Fun and Enrichment for Fall
Fall is a wonderful time to enjoy Michigan’s crisp weather with your pets:
- Brisk dog walks through the neighborhood or trails
- Supervised play in the yard or with leaf piles (always check for mold)
- Sunny window perches for cats to watch the colorful scenery
October is also Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month — a wonderful reminder to consider opening your home to a rescue pet.
Schedule a Fall Wellness Exam
Before the holiday rush, autumn is the perfect time to bring your pet in for a wellness check. At Schoolcraft Veterinary Clinic, we provide:
- Weight and body condition evaluations
- Vaccinations and parasite prevention updates
- Screenings for skin, and ear problems
- Nutrition and lifestyle guidance
Call Schoolcraft Veterinary Clinic in Schoolcraft, Michigan today to schedule your pet’s fall wellness visit and keep your furry family members safe and healthy all season long.
Schoolcraft Veterinary Clinic
Schoolcraft, MI
(269) 679-5248
