Fall Safety Tips for Exotic Pets on Long Island

Kaitlin Saxton
Oct 11
2 min read

Fall on Long Island is filled with crisp air, cozy vibes, and plenty of pumpkin everything. But while we humans may love the season, autumn also comes with hidden risks for our exotic pets. From fluctuating temperatures to holiday hazards, being proactive helps ensure your feathered, scaled, and furry companions stay safe.

Here are essential fall safety tips every exotic pet parent should know.

Watch the Temperature Swings

Long Island fall weather is unpredictable—chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and drafty evenings. For reptiles, amphibians, and birds, those changes can be dangerous.

Check enclosures daily for stable heat and humidity.
Avoid placing cages near drafty doors or windows.
Ensure thermometers and heating elements are in good working order.

💡 Tip:

If you’re away, our exotic pet sitting services include careful monitoring of temperatures and habitats.

Holiday Decor Hazards for Exotic Pets

Fall means festive decorations, but not all are pet-safe.

Candles and open flames (pumpkin spice candles, jack-o’-lanterns) pose fire and burn risks.
Fake leaves, glitter, or tinsel can cause blockages if ingested.
Pumpkins and gourds are safe in moderation for some pets, but always check before offering.

As much as we may love the smell of a pumpkin spice scented candle, they can be incredibly dangerous for pets, especially birds!

Fall Foods to Avoid with Exotic Pets

Halloween and holiday treats can be tempting—but many are toxic.

Chocolate, alcohol, and caffeine are unsafe for nearly all pets.
Sugar-free candies containing xylitol are highly toxic.
Salty or seasoned holiday foods should never be shared.

Planning to travel this season? Secure your spot for holiday boarding now before they’re gone!

Fall Outdoor Dangers

If your pet enjoys supervised outdoor time, be aware of fall-specific risks.

Moldy leaves and standing water can harbor harmful bacteria.
Fertilizers, pesticides, and lawn chemicals linger in the fall.
Wild mushrooms are highly toxic—avoid them at all costs.

Our boarding services provide a safe, clean environment so pets stay protected.

Seasonal Stress for Exotics

Fall also brings busy schedules, trick-or-treaters, and noisy gatherings. For exotic pets, the changes can be stressful.

Keep pets in quiet, secure areas during busy holidays.
Stick to their regular feeding and care routines.
Limit exposure to masks, costumes, or loud noises.

Need help keeping routines consistent? Our pet sitting visits are designed to reduce stress and keep pets happy.

With a little planning, fall can be a safe and enjoyable season for your exotic pets! Watch the temperature, keep dangerous foods and décor out of reach, avoid outdoor toxins, and minimize seasonal stress.