Fall is finally here in Oroville, CA—the leaves are starting to turn and the air is beginning to have that deliciously crisp feeling in the mornings. After a long, hot summer, many of us welcome the change.
But as you prep your home and wardrobe for the cooler season, don’t forget about your four-legged family members. Fall pet wellness is more important than you might think, and now’s the perfect time to make sure your pet is feeling their best.
Here’s what the team at Oroville Animal Health Center wants you to know about fall pet wellness.
Seasonal Changes Can Affect Pets, Too
Just like us, pets can feel the effects of changing weather. That’s where seasonal pet care comes in. Cooler temps may be a welcome break from summer heat, but they can also bring on stiff joints—especially for older pets or those with joint disease.
Other seasonal changes can include:
- Fall allergies
- Dry air leading to skin and respiratory issues
- Packing on extra fur—or pounds
- More time home alone for pets as everyone gets back into a school/work routine
If your dog isn’t as excited for walks or your cat seems a bit sluggish, it might be more than just a lazy day at fault.
Fall is a great time to check in on those subtle signs that something’s bothering your pawsome pal.
Along with new, season-specific challenges, your pet must continue to deal with pesky issues like fleas and ticks. A lot of people assume these pests disappear when summer ends—but it’s not quite that quick. Fleas and ticks can still be active well into the fall, especially in leaf piles, stacks of firewood, or wooded areas. And thanks to our warmer climate overall, heartworm can affect pets all year long in Oroville.
That’s why parasite prevention is a key part of fall routines. Skipping preventives now could mean dealing with an itchy, uncomfortable pet, or a seriously ill pet later.
Why October Is Ideal for a Pet Checkup
Just like you schedule physical exams for yourself or maintenance for your vehicle, your pet needs a seasonal tuneup, too. October is a perfect time for this because it’s right in that sweet spot after summer busyness ends but before the holiday chaos begins.
Your vet can catch any changes in your pet early, from dry skin and extra weight to joint pain and anxiety.
Early intervention can help with these common fall woes, which means a simple checkup now can save a lot of trouble later.
Looking for a Vet? Try Oroville Vet Clinic
If you’re in the Northern California area, our Oroville vet clinic is a great place to bring your pet for a fall wellness check.
The team here at Oroville Animal Health Center takes the time to get to know your pet and you throughout every visit. We can help you stay on top of things like vaccines, parasite prevention, skin health, and nutrition—in the fall and all year long.
Call us at (530) 533-7513 to schedule a wellness exam today.