With autumn officially rolling in today, Dogs Trust – the UK’s largest dog welfare charity – has launched new Walkies Warning Signs. Designed to help dog owners navigate seasonal dangers and keep their pets safe, the signs highlight common hidden hazards of the season.  

Initially being trialled in a popular walking spot on the borders of the South Downs National Park, the charity is helping owners keep their dogs safe by placing the dog’s-eye-level signs within a safe distance from the hazards.

‘Sniffable signs’

The ‘sniffable signs’ are laced with a pooch-safe scent to catch curious canines’ attention, prompting their owners to take note of the risks in the area. Each sign features a QR code linking to expert advice on recognising seasonal hazards and keeping dogs safe. The trial comes as new research reveals nine in 10 (88%) South East dog owners cannot identify all of the season’s most common doggy dangers – when in fact there are seven main culprits to be aware of following the changeover in season, from toxic mushrooms to ticks.

Despite 85% of dog owners in the region reporting encounters with least one of the hazards on an autumn dog walk in the past year, nearly three in five (59%) did not identify acorns as a danger while 45% did not recognise conkers as a risk.

Key autumnal doggy dangers:

• Toxic mushrooms and fungi: Not every mushroom is worth a sniff. Some fungi can be toxic to dogs and species can be difficult to tell apart. Keep your dog away from mushrooms, using high-value treats to entice them into safety.

• Acorns and conkers: Nature’s toys are best left where they fall. Acorns and conkers can make dogs unwell and may cause a dangerous blockage if swallowed. Stick to dog-safe toys for fetch.

• Rotting and mouldy fruit: One autumn snack they should skip. Mould on any rotting food – from fruit to bread left over after a picnic – can be toxic to dogs, while some pips and stones can cause sickness or a dangerous blockage.

• Slugs and snails: Don’t let curiosity become a mouthful. Slugs and snails can carry parasites that are harmful to dogs. Don’t let your dog eat them or lick their slime trails.

• Ticks: Give them a post-walk once-over. Ticks can attach themselves to dogs and may transmit disease or cause irritation. Check your dog after walks, particularly long grass or woodland.

The guides are expected to be of value to dog owners after the research found that while 53% identified rotting fruit and food as an autumn danger, only 44% knew that playing with and eating snails can be a risk and only just over a quarter (26%) always check their dogs for ticks after a walk in tall grass, woods or bracken.

How to keep dogs away from hazards

Dogs Trust veterinary expert Tesse Kimber encourages owners to teach a ‘this way’ cue to dogs, to keep them safe when they may have encountered something dangerous.  The ‘swap and drop’ method is advised as an alternative option, or particularly in more tricky moments. Owners are advised to take something of high value, such as a treat or favourite toy, on all walks. They should get their dog’s attention, then throw the high value item away a short distance so that they drop the toxic item in order to retrieve the reward.

The treat will also help owners entice their dog away from the sniffable sign once they have taken heed of its warning.

Tesse Kimber, Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Dogs Trust said, “There are many hazards that come with the ‘ruff season’, but also simple and easy ways to keep dogs safe. Our online guide and Walkies Warning Signs mean both dogs and their owners can confidently enjoy every walk. Some simple steps include being vigilant, keeping your dog on a lead and away from potential hazards, and bringing high value treats with you in case you need them. Know the warning signs – lethargy, upset stomach, restlessness and rashes can all be signs of potential ingested toxins. And act fast; get your dog to the vet right away if your dog shows any signs of encountering a hazard.”

If the trial proves popular, Dogs Trust aims to introduce the signs at other walking spots across the UK. The full guide on how to keep dogs safe is available on the Dogs Trust website here.