Hey River Valley pet lovers — fall is finally here! 🍂

The air’s crisp, the trails are colorful, and our furry friends are loving every minute of it.

This week, we’re kicking off with some essential fall safety tips to keep your pets healthy and happy all season long — plus a few feel-good stories, local adventures, and adoptable faces you won’t want to miss.

Let’s dive in! 🐶💛

Keep your pets safe this fall with these practical tips.

Store Halloween candy, including chocolate and xylitol-sweetened treats, far out of paw’s reach, as these can be toxic to dogs and cats.

Give pets a quiet spot away from doorbells and trick-or-treat excitement to reduce anxiety.

Be mindful outdoors, too.

Clear away fallen leaves and mushrooms, which can hide dangerous fungi, and watch for antifreeze spills around your driveway or garage.

Cold snaps can be tough on short-haired breeds and outdoor cats; provide warm sweaters or heated beds, and always check paws for salt or ice after walks.

Inside, keep pets away from candles, fireplaces, and space heaters, as well as toxic seasonal plants.

As days grow shorter, choose reflective leashes or clip-on lights for safe walks around the River Valley.

With simple precautions, you and your furry friends can make the most of autumn adventures together.

Meet Argo

Argo is a 82 pound, male, Rottweiler / Mix located at Fort Smith Animal Haven. He is good with other dogs, but no cats. To get more information on adopting, visit Fort Smith Animal Haven.

In the serene hills of Arkansas, a groundbreaking program is forging new paths for both veterans and rescue dogs.

The Warriors Keep Service Dog Training Program connects veterans with PTSD or traumatic brain injuries to shelter dogs, supporting them through an in-depth journey of teamwork and healing.

Over 18 months, veterans and their new companions progress through stages of obedience training, public access skills, and specialized service tasks.

This approach not only prepares dogs to assist, but also helps veterans rebuild trust, confidence, and a sense of belonging as they adjust to life outside the military.

More than just dog training, Warriors Keep shapes a supportive community where mentorship and mutual growth flourish.

Veterans and supporters can find more details about classes, volunteering, or donations by visiting warriorskeep.faith.

Fall in the River Valley invites locals and their dogs to get outside and savor the vibrant seasonal scenery.

Lake Fort Smith State Park in Mountainburg boasts pet-friendly trails, where leashed dogs and their owners can enjoy crisp air and lakeside views, making each step—and photo stop—especially memorable.

After an invigorating hike, Sweet Bay Coffee Co. in Fort Smith serves as the perfect spot for a warm drink, welcoming pups on the patio and offering a homey, pet-friendly atmosphere.

For those seeking community vibes, Creekmore Park provides acres of room to explore, socialize, and stroll beneath autumn foliage. The adjoining trail system invites longer adventures through nearby neighborhoods.

Whether it’s a brisk walk, cozy café visit, or park playtime, the River Valley is packed with options for locals and their furry companions this season.

Fall brings pumpkin treats for everyone—even our pets notice!

Plain canned pumpkin (not the pie filling) offers a vet-approved, gentle way to support your dog’s or cat’s digestion.

It is rich in fiber, low-calorie, and can help keep pets’ stool consistent if used in moderation.

Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains high sugar and spices like nutmeg that may cause stomach upset.

Start with small amounts: a teaspoon for cats or tiny dogs, a tablespoon for larger breeds, stirred right into their usual food.

For your pet's safety, always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food—even healthy options like pumpkin.

Meet Jinx — an irresistibly cute male Terrier mix! Born in May 2022, this 59-pound pup is already neutered, heartworm-negative, and completely up-to-date on all vaccines and preventatives.

Since being rescued from the pound, Jinx has blossomed in his foster home in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

He’s mastering his manners, loves going in and out the doggie door, and enjoys relaxing or napping by your side — occasional snoring included!

Jinx is affectionate, playful, and thrives on snuggles and outdoor adventures.

If you’re ready for loyalty, fun, and a sweet speckled nose, Jinx would love to join your family.

Location: Fort Smith, Arkansas. Apply to Adopt: shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/TAP/Dog

Reach Pet Lovers Across the River Valley 🐾

Are you a local pet business, trainer, groomer, or vet clinic?

River Valley Paws reaches hundreds of pet-loving readers every Friday — the perfect way to introduce your services to the community that cares about their animals most.

Feature your business in our Pet of the Week spotlight, sponsor a seasonal article, or grab one of our limited ad spots to keep your brand in front of engaged local readers.

📩 Email:info@rivervalleypaws.com

Let’s grow together — one paw at a time. 🐶💛

🐾 Until Next Time

Cooler days, crunchy leaves, and wagging tails — fall really is the best time to slow down and enjoy the season with your pets.

Whether you’re hiking the trails, sipping coffee on a patio, or curling up on the couch, remember: a happy pet makes for a happy home. 💛

We’ll see you next Friday with more stories, local spotlights, and adoptable pets from across the River Valley.

Until then — give your furry friends an extra treat for us!

Follow us on Facebook: @RiverValleyPaws