Photo by Hunor Kerekes.
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, our pets experience the changing season right alongside us. Cooler temperatures, shifting routines, and more time spent outdoors among fallen leaves and forest trails all bring new opportunities—and a few seasonal considerations. Autumn is one of the best times to explore the Hudson Valley and Catskills with our four-legged companions. Long walks feel more comfortable, hiking trails blaze with color, and cozy evenings invite extra snuggling. With a few simple adjustments, you can help your pets stay healthy and happy all season long.
Autumn is one of the most enjoyable times of year to explore the Hudson Valley and Catskills with our four-legged companions.
enjoy the great outdoors
Most dogs adore the cooler weather. After the heat of summer, autumn offers ideal conditions for walks, hikes, and leaf-peeping adventures.
Whether you are strolling through town, exploring local trails, or visiting a farm, be sure to bring fresh water, keep pets on leash where required, and watch for sharp burrs or thorns that can lodge in paws and fur.
Cats who venture outdoors may also spend more time exploring as temperatures moderate, making regular health checks especially important.
Photo by Humphrey Pwka.
Photo by Beres Ioan.
Photo by Alexander Jawfox.
Photo by Benjamin Lehman.
Photo by Jamie Street.
don't let your guard down about ticks
Just because summer is over does not mean ticks disappear.
In fact, tick activity often remains strong throughout the fall in the Hudson Valley and Catskills. After walks, check your pets carefully—especially around the ears, necks, underarms, and between the toes.
Maintaining a veterinarian-approved tick prevention routine remains one of the most important steps you can take to protect your pet.
Maintaining a vet-approved tick prevention routine remains one of the most important steps you can take to protect your pet.
support aging joints
Cooler temperatures can make stiffness more noticeable in older dogs and cats. If your senior pet seems slower to rise or less eager to jump and play, autumn is a good time to speak with your veterinarian about joint-support strategies. Comfortable bedding, gentle exercise, and nutritional supplements may help keep aging pets active and comfortable.
Photo by Ayla Verschueren.
brush away the season
Fallen leaves are beautiful, but they can trap moisture, mud, and debris in your pet’s coat. Regular brushing helps remove tangles and keeps skin healthy. It also provides an opportunity to check for ticks, burrs, and any unusual lumps or irritations. For long-haired breeds, a little extra grooming can make autumn adventures far more comfortable.
nourish FRom the inside out
As routines shift, autumn can be a good time to reassess your pet’s diet. Some pets become more active in cooler weather, while others begin to slow down as the days shorten. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to support long-term well-being. And while pumpkin is a favorite seasonal ingredient, plain cooked pumpkin (without sugar or spices) can be a gentle addition to some pets’ diets when recommended by your veterinarian.
create a cozy retreat
As the evenings grow cooler, pets naturally seek warmth and comfort. Fresh bedding, sunny resting spots, and quiet corners can help create a sense of security and ease. Many animals respond positively to predictable routines, especially as household schedules shift with school and seasonal activities.
watch for seasonal hazards
Autumn brings a few hidden dangers.
Keep pets away from:
• Mushrooms of unknown origin
• Decorative corn and gourds
• Candles and open flames
• Chocolate and holiday treats
• Rodent-control products and antifreeze
When in doubt, assume something unfamiliar is unsafe and consult your veterinarian.
the healing power of time together
Perhaps the greatest wellness tool of all is simply spending time together.
A walk through the woods, a quiet afternoon in the garden, or an evening curled up by the fire strengthens the bond we share with our animals. Pets help us slow down, stay present, and appreciate the small pleasures of the season.
Sometimes the best medicine is a long walk, a warm bed, and a little extra time together.
pet-friendly autumn adventures
• Scenic walks and easy hikes
• Leaf-peeping road trips
• Dog-friendly farm visits
• Outdoor cafés and patios
• Cozy evenings by the fire
Sometimes the best medicine is a long walk, a warm bed, and a little extra time together.
