At Dan’s Pet Care, our team members love taking our dogs out and about. We wish the whole world was built to be dog-friendly — but that’s just not the case. While there are many pet-friendly activities you can enjoy on Long Island this fall, there are a few activities that might not be the best choice for your dog. While you can often technically bring your dog along for these excursions, you might not be making the best decision for their health and happiness.

Of course, a lot depends on the specifics of where you’re heading. Still, it’s worth some careful consideration before you pack up your dog’s travel gear and bring them to these events. Let’s take a look at a few popular fall outings that might not be ideal for sharing with your dog.

Mushroom foraging in the woods

The woods of Long Island are home to many different mushroom varieties. Naturally, foraging is a popular activity with many residents. In fact, you can find clubs on Long Island devoted to mushroom foraging. The Long Island Mycological Club offers yearly pubic exhibits and aims to promote knowledge and study of our local mushroom species.

Mushroom foraging is a fun fall activity for humans, but your dog will likely be better off at home. Since it can be extremely hard for humans to tell poisonous mushrooms from edible ones, your dog will have an even harder time. Even if you’re just out for a walk in the woods, you should keep a close eye out for wild mushrooms — and head home if they’re easily accessible by your dog.

Pumpkin patch and apple orchard visits

You might think that, because pumpkin patches and apple orchards are outside, dogs would be welcomed with no questions asked. However, due to food safety concerns and other liabilities, many orchards and pumpkin patches do not allow dogs on their properties. Be sure to thoroughly research the dog policy before taking your dog along on a fall produce run. Also keep in mind that your dog might be allowed in certain areas of the property, but not in the actual orchard or pumpkin patch. Make sure to plan accordingly so that one member of your party can stay with your dog, while everyone else picks produce.

Even if your dog is allowed at a pumpkin patch or apple orchard, they may be overstimulated. There are often many children to be found at these activities, and not all of them understand proper etiquette and safety guidelines surrounding strange dogs. If your dog tends to be shy, protective or easily overwhelmed, they might be happier at home.

Challenging hikes with steep inclines or rough terrain

Many dogs love to hike — and hiking together can be a great way to stay in shape and bond with your dog. Plus, fall’s cooler weather makes it an ideal time for a scenic hike. But not every hike is appropriate for your dog. Their paws many not be able to stand up to rocky or thorny path surfaces. Many dogs also have a hard time with inclines that are too steep. Furthermore, dogs that are older or overweight many not have the stamina to complete a long hike safely. Once you’re far out on the trail, your dog will have no choice but to walk back. To play it safe, make sure to thoroughly research each trail before attempting it with your dog. Discuss your plans with your veterinarian and err on the side of keeping your dog safe.

Outdoor adventures on extremely cold, windy days

Your dog isn’t immune to cold, even though they’re wearing a permanent fur coat. As humans, we can communicate when we feel our body temperature dropping too low. However, your dog doesn’t have a great way to tell you that they’re in danger from hyperthermia. Below 45 degrees, many dogs will begin to feel too cold. Some dogs will be fine until the temperature drops to 32 degrees — and still others can be safe at temperatures above 20 degrees. But it’s important to carefully research your dog’s breed tendencies, and also consult with your veterinarian. Particularly if your dog is a smaller breed, a senior, or has existing health problems, you should exercise caution when taking them out in the cold.

Let us help!

These are just a few of the fall activities that might not be best for sharing with your dog. When it’s better to leave your dog behind, you can count on Dan’s Pet Care to provide high-quality care. Contact us today to start working with Long Island’s favorite full-service pet care company!