The quick answer

As autumn arrives, adjust dog walks for earlier darkness, wetter surfaces and changing temperatures. Check walking equipment, improve visibility when necessary and build a simple wet-weather routine before winter arrives.

September is the month when the evening walk quietly changes.

One week you're outside in daylight.

Then suddenly it's dark before you've decided what to have for dinner.

 

Reconsider the usual route

A route that's perfect in summer may feel different in darkness.

Think about:

• Street lighting.
• Road crossings.
• Isolated areas.
• Muddy sections.
• Busy cycle routes.
• Whether you can clearly see your dog.

You don't need to abandon your favourite park.

You may simply use a different route through it.

Make visibility deliberate

If your dog's normal harness or lead isn't designed as high-visibility equipment, don't pretend it is.

Add a suitable light or reflective accessory when extra visibility is needed.

The same goes for you.

Dark clothes plus a black dog plus an unlit path isn't an especially helpful combination.

Check the walking set

Autumn is a good point to inspect:

• Buckles.
• Lead clasp.
• Stitching.
• Adjustment.
• Fit.
• Identification tag.

A couple of minutes now is easier than discovering a problem in the rain.

Create a wet-weather landing zone

Towel.

Paw cloth.

Somewhere for wet accessories to dry.

Somewhere for muddy shoes.

Nothing sophisticated.

Just enough to prevent the hallway looking like you've returned from an expedition.

Watch what your dog picks up

Autumn brings fallen material, fungi and other things dogs may investigate.

Don't allow your dog to eat unknown plants or fungi, and contact your vet if you're concerned about something they've ingested.

The RSPCA also advises owners to be aware of seasonal hazards while walking.

Enjoy the good part

Autumn dog walks are also some of the best.

Cooler air.

Quieter evenings.

Parks changing colour.

Coffee becoming a legitimate post-walk requirement again.

We'll take it.

 

• Rainy Dog Walks in London
• How to Clean a Dog Harness, Collar and Lead
• Walking Your Dog After Dark
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