Why Our Vets in Teddington Recommend an Autumn Check-In
September 7, 2026
As the summer winds down in Greater London and routines begin to reset, September and October offer a natural opportunity to take stock of your pet’s health before the colder months arrive. Small concerns that developed quietly over summer – a change in weight, a skin issue, a shift in behaviour – are much better to address now before we hit winter.
Our vets in Teddington are here to help. Want to get ahead? Book a check-up today
Why autumn is such a good time to book a check-up
At Alpha Vets, our team recommend preventative care as one of the most effective things you can do for your pet’s long-term health – and early autumn is a great time to check in. It sits at a natural turning point in the year – summer activity, travel, and routine changes are winding down, while the challenges of winter are not far away. Booking a check-in now means any issues can be identified and addressed before seasonal changes add extra pressure on your pet’s health.
This is particularly important for senior pets, those with existing health conditions, and smaller animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs, who can be more vulnerable to changes in temperature and environment.
If you’d like to learn more about the services we offer to support your pet through seasonal shifts, our team are always happy to help.
What an autumn check-in typically covers
Weight and body condition
Changes in exercise levels, diet, or activity during summer can affect your pet’s weight in either direction. Our team in Teddington can assess your pet’s body condition and offer tailored guidance to help them stay in a healthy range heading into winter. Unexplained weight loss in particular is always worth investigating promptly.
Parasite prevention
Fleas, ticks, and worms remain active well into autumn, and pets who have spent more time outdoors over summer may have had increased exposure. Our veterinary team at Alpha Vets recommend reviewing your parasite prevention routine at this time of year to ensure your pet remains protected as the season changes. Talk to our vets about the right flea, tick, and worm protection for your pet’s individual needs and once prescribed by us, you can set up a reminder with our team and re-order easily each time.
Skin, coat, and ear health
Summer can take a toll on skin and coat condition; think:
- Sharp grass seeds
- Sticky seed pods
- Allergies
- Seasonal shedding
- Matted fur
- Dry skin from overheating
- Over-bathing
- Parasite activity
- Bacteria and yeast overgrowth from humid conditions
These can all lead to issues that may not be immediately obvious. Our team in Teddington are experienced in identifying early signs of irritation, infection, or discomfort, and can advise on the best course of action before problems escalate.
General wellbeing and behaviour
An early autumn vet health check is also a good opportunity to raise any concerns about your pet’s behaviour, appetite, energy levels, or mobility. Even subtle changes can sometimes be an early indicator of an underlying issue, and catching these early can make a real difference to outcomes. If you’re unsure whether something warrants a visit, get in touch – we’ll be happy to advise.
If anything feels unusual, it is always best to seek professional advice sooner rather than later. Our friendly team are always happy to help, even if you just want to talk something through before booking an appointment.
September and October are the perfect time to take stock of your pet’s health and routine before the colder weather arrives. Book an appointment at Alpha Vets today.
