As summer fades into fall and temperatures drop, animals can become susceptible to injury, illness and even death. It’s important that pet owners, especially new ones, are fully aware of the unique dangers that animals face in the fall and prepare for them accordingly.

Whether you're a new pet parent or just want to be on top of your care game, at PetHub, we’ve got you covered on all you should plan for, including things to avoid to keep your pets healthy, safe and home with you.

1. Beware of Anti-freeze. Ingesting antifreeze is lethal to both humans and animals. Unfortunately, both cats and dogs have been known to lick this sweet tasting substance as it’s often placed at their feet or eye level. Make sure to check your car for leaks and make sure all bottles are stored far away from your pets. Insurance can help make sure you are capable of taking care of your pet if such an emergency arises.

2. Cold is a common Pet Killer. Please keep in mind not to leave your pets outside for prolonged periods of time, no longer than 15-20 minutes. Any temperature below 32 degrees can cause dogs and cats to suffer hypothermia and frostbite, and most pets need a temperature above 70 to be completely comfortable; Especially puppies, senior pets and smaller animals. If necessary, a warm jacket or sweater can help keep your dog warm during the cold winter months.

3. Beware of ticks. It’s tick season in many areas and walking, exploring and playing in the cool autumn leaves is one of the many ways your pooch could get them. Consider using a natural tick repellent to help protect your pet and be vigilant when grooming.

4. Let 'em have their fur coat. If you shave your dog during the summer, let them start growing their coat back in the fall. Just like you need a fall/winter coat they’ll need theirs too, as this thick coat is their natural protection against frostbite. And don’t forget to never shave double coated dogs.

Supplements like Zesty Paws Multivitamin are a great way to make sure you dog has a healthy coat!

5.  Update their ID tags. The changing of seasons is a great time to check your pet ID tags and microchip. If you do happen to have a pet go missing in the fall, they will be more likely to suffer effects of the cold environment. Check out Pethub's range of tag's here! It only takes five minutes to make sure all your pet’s information is up-to-date and in proper order so they can be returned home to you ASAP.

6. Make holiday arrangements. Make plans with your dog walker, pet sitter or doggy day care NOW. As the holidays approach, most of us get busier and sometimes travel. Take time out to plan ahead so you can make the holidays easier on your pets and keep them from ripping up those presents.

7. Make guests aware of pet's special needs. Fall celebrations such as Thanksgiving and Halloween often mean visitors to your home. If you have a pet that has special needs or is wary of new people, be sure to tell your guests about your pet before they come over.

8. Make sure pets are blocked from exterior doors. Make sure your pets can’t escape through the main entrance of your home. This is especially important if you plan on having several guests in and out of the house this holiday season. It may be worth investing in a gate such as this one from Chewy or creating some kind of barrier between the door and your pet.

Especially if you have a pet that’s prone to bolting. Check out our article on how to Houdini proof your home for more resources to protect your pet from escaping.

9. Be careful with holiday treats. Aside from known hazards such as chocolate, cooked bones and raw bread dough, many other fruits and vegetables can also be life threatening to pets. Make sure these foods, as well as stockings with hazards, are kept out of reach. Want some safe holiday treat options for your furbabies? Check out these options from Chewy.

10. Be careful with decorations. Many shiny, new decorations look like really fun toys to your pets. Make sure decorations are displayed far enough away from your pets, many of them contain toxic metals and can become choking hazards.

Following the tips above should help prepare you for the season and ensure that your pets remain safe and comfortable. After all, the holidays are an incredibly busy and fun time of the year and are best celebrated with happy and healthy fur friends and family.