As the vibrant colors of autumn paint the Netherlands in golden hues, pet owners get to enjoy crisp walks and cosy moments with their furry friends. 🍂 But the season also brings new challenges, from slippery leaves to dark evenings and temperature changes.
We’re here to help you make this autumn safe, warm, and full of wagging tails.
🍁 Enjoy the Autumn Outdoors: Safely
Autumn walks are magical. The sound of crunching leaves and the fresh air make every stroll feel new again. But fallen leaves can hide hidden dangers such as ticks, sharp debris, and fungal spores.
💡Tip: After each outdoor adventure, gently check your dog’s paws for cuts or trapped debris, and wipe them dry to prevent irritation.
If your dog loves swimming, keep an eye out for blue-green algae in ponds or lakes; they can be toxic if ingested. Stick to clean, flowing water instead.
➡️ Check here for more information
🌙 Prepare for Shorter Days and Darker Nights
In the Netherlands, daylight fades fast in autumn. When walking your dog after sunset, visibility is everything. Equip your pet’s collar or harness with reflective gear or LED lights to stay visible to cyclists and motorists.
For cats, consider keeping them indoors after dark or using a reflective collar for added safety.
🦮 YMOAs’ Reflective Leash & Harness Set helps you stay seen and stylish on your evening walks.
🥣 Adjust Diet and Exercise for Cooler Weather
As days grow shorter, pets tend to move less, and just like us, they might crave extra snacks. Maintain a healthy routine by balancing exercise and nutrition.
If outdoor time decreases, try interactive toys or indoor agility games to keep their minds active.
Consult your vet if your pet’s appetite changes. Some pets benefit from a slightly lower-calorie diet in colder months.
🪲 Don’t Let Parasites Take a Holiday
Fleas and ticks remain active well into autumn, especially in leaf piles and moist undergrowth.
Continue your pet’s flea and tick prevention treatments year-round, and do thorough tick checks after each walk. Prevention is always easier (and cheaper) than treatment.
🩺 YMOAs Insight: Even urban pets can catch ticks from parks or gardens, stay one step ahead with year-round care.➡️ Check here for more information
🎃 Handle the “Spooky Season” with Care
Autumn also means Halloween and Bonfire Night (Guy Fawkes) — fun for humans, but often stressful for pets.
Here’s how to keep them calm and comfortable:
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Avoid walks during fireworks or loud celebrations.
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Create a quiet, familiar space where they can retreat.
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Keep Halloween candy — especially chocolate — out of reach.
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If your pet struggles with anxiety, ask your vet about calming aids or soft music therapy.
➡️Here are some tips from us:
Fireworks Anxiety in Dogs: A Comprehensive, Practical, and Evidence-Based Guide
Separation Anxiety in Dogs: How to Calm Your Anxious Pup When You're Away
🇳🇱 Follow Dutch Pet Care Regulations
The Netherlands has clear rules for pet welfare — and following them helps everyone stay safe.
All dogs must be microchipped and registered with your municipality. Cats are increasingly microchipped too.
Regular vet check-ups and vaccinations protect your pet year-round, including during the colder months.
For more information, visit the Dutch government’s animal welfare page.
🐾 Make Indoors as Cosy as the Season Itself
Autumn is the perfect excuse to slow down and get cosy. Create a warm corner with soft blankets or heated pads, and let your cat nap near a sunny window.
Dogs will love a plush mat near the sofa — after all, every cuddle counts when it’s grey outside.
🌟 Final Thought
Autumn in the Netherlands is a season of change — colourful, calm, and full of moments to treasure. With a little preparation and lots of love, your pets can enjoy it just as much as you do.
At YMOAs, every walk, cuddle, and nap deserves a touch of comfort and care. 🐕🐈
References (APA 7th Edition)
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Amsterdam Animal Hospital. (2024). Autumn pet safety tips.
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Haven Vets. (2024). Autumn pet care advice: September to November.
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Dutch Government. (2024). Animal welfare regulations. Retrieved from https://www.government.nl/topics/animal-welfare/animal-welfare-regulations
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IAMS Europe. (2024). Help keep your pets safe and healthy this autumn.
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Four Paws. (2024). Dogs in autumn: how to care for your pets during colder months