How to keep your pets safe as the evenings get dark earlier

Wear Reflective Clothing

Being seen in the dark is crucial for you and your pet’s safety. Reflective and light clothing, worn by both you and your four-legged friend, gives motorists a better chance of seeing you in the dark and taking caution when passing. This is especially important if there is poor visibility on your walking route. If your pet causes a fuss wearing coats, don’t worry- reflective and light-up collars can be a suitable alternative for both dogs and cats. It’s important for our animal companions to stay adventurous throughout the year, and reflective clothing or a light-up collar can help ensure they are safe when exploring the great outdoors!

Use a Torch

Do you often walk on a poorly lit route? If so, take a torch on your autumn walks with your pooch! Carrying a torch provides visibility of your path and surroundings while also alerting motorists and cyclists to your presence. This helps you keep an eye on your dog and stay safe during nighttime walks. Many dogs love roaming free and playing fetch with their human friends on a walk, and who are we to ruin their fun? Bring a torch so you can keep track of your pet while they wander freely; darker hour walks can still be stimulating and fun!

Use a Whistle

Carry a whistle on your darker walks to help you to communicate with your dog. If you have an adventurous fur baby who likes to explore far and wide, whistle training can be extremely useful during the autumn months. A dog whistle will not disturb other humans or wildlife in your area but will get your dog’s attention and call them back to you when they are out of view. A whistle can carry further than your voice, allowing your hound to explore while still hearing your call to return. Remember, if you live in a very poorly lit area, both a torch and whistle should be carried to ensure your pooch’s safety this autumn.

Create a Well-Lit Outdoor Area

Does your cat stick to its feline instincts, being a curious nighttime hunter? These furry friends can be difficult to keep safe as the nights grow longer, so it’s important to create a secure environment for your cat to indulge in their nighttime routines. Set up a well-lit outdoor space to help your cat to stay visible to you without disrupting their natural behaviours. If you live in an area with nighttime predators, a closed off enclosure, known as a catio, can ensure your cat’s well-being while still allowing them to enjoy a nighttime stroll.

Treat Training

Treat training is a fun bonding activity that can keep your animal friends safe as the night falls earlier. Training your cat to associate a specific noise, such as the shaking of their treats packet, with receiving a treat, encourages them to return home more often. This can help you establish a kitty curfew and ensure your feline friend is home before dusk. Another way to encourage this routine is to feed your pet earlier, which can inspire them to return home sooner. Getting your cat into this routine can ensure they are home and safe before the evening becomes dangerous. Shop Webbox for the perfect treat to train your cat to come home.

Walk on Well-Lit Routes

As the cold, dark months approach, your usual walking routes may become increasingly dangerous. Woodlands and fields are less suitable for evening autumn walks with your pooch, so opt for well-lit paths to keep you and your pet safe on walks. We suggest familiarising your dog with these safer routes at the start of autumn. This can help them become accustomed to their surroundings and ensure safety and enjoyment on your autumn walks.

As we approach the later months of the year, walks with your dog don’t have to be dark and gloomy! Letting your cat out to explore doesn’t have to cause anxiety and stress either! By taking the proper precautions, you can ensure your pets’ safety while making your autumn outings to be fun and stimulating for your furry friends.

Do you have any suggestions on how to keep your pets safe during the longer nights? Follow us on social media today to keep up to date with all things Webbox. We’d love for you to share your tips and tricks to keep all our fur babies safe this winter.