UK dog owners warned of 'poisoning' danger to their pets during autumn

The RSPCA is alerting pet owners to autumn hazards they need to watch out for. Acorns, sycamore seeds and seedlings pose a toxic threat to farm animals, horses and pets.

When farm animals, horses or dogs consume acorns in autumn or young oak leaves in spring, warning signs can emerge within hours or take several days to develop.

The animal welfare charity has highlighted the symptoms to look for.

READ MORE: 'Easy' method to tell if your dog or cat has good 'quality of life'

READ MORE: Dog owner sees something in pet's mouth and is gobsmacked when she realises what it is

Poisoning signs may differ between species but frequently feature indicators such as:

• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Abdominal tenderness
• Tiredness
• Depression
• Rapid weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration
• Colic
• Weakness
• Head pressing
• Uncoordinated movements

The RSPCA explains on its website: "We understand it's difficult to watch your dog's every movement. However, if owners think their dog will show interest in or eat acorns, they should find a safer place to take their dog. Owners can also bring a toy or tasty treat so their pet can be easily distracted and recalled."

Additional ways to protect your dog during dark autumn evenings include always donning reflective gear to ensure you're visible when walking near traffic in low light with pets, reports the Liverpool Echo.

The RSPCA recommends fitting your dog and cat with a reflective collar. During the latter months of the year, the RSPCA reports seeing more injured animals arriving at their centres following road traffic incidents.

READ MORE: 'I'm a dog trainer and you can stop pet giving you hard time on walks with one change'

There are also steps you can take to soothe your pet during firework displays around Bonfire Night. You should exercise your dog in daylight to avoid periods when fireworks are most likely to be ignited.

Pet owners are advised to close windows and curtains to dampen the noise of fireworks and block out any flashes from outside. Sometimes, playing some music or having the telly on can help mask the sound of fireworks.

If you're uncertain about when to ring up the vet, Vet Help Direct is an online guide that can assist you in determining how urgently you need to get in touch with your vet. Under the Animal Welfare Act, if a pet you own or are responsible for is in pain or suffering, it's your legal obligation to take them to a vet.