Grab your coat and brolly and head into the great outdoors to enjoy the crisp autumn air.

That’s the message from YourVets Dagenham which has launched its autumn walking campaign.

Staff at the Whalebone Lane South store are aiming to encourage dog owners to keep their pets active as the dark nights draw in.

As come rain or shine, the average dog needs 60 minutes of exercise per day.

Clare Baker, practice manager at YourVets Dagenham, said: “Sadly many people go into hibernation in the colder months, taking their dogs inside with them.”

“It is essential that dogs stay active throughout the year, not only for the physical benefits it provides but for the mental and well-being aspects too.”

Here are her top tips:

n Many dogs struggle in the summer heat, so autumn means they can run further and enjoy their walks more

n The scents and textures of fallen leaves provide dogs with a great sensory experiment

n Dogs have more freedom on autumn walks, with fields no longer full of young animals and aggressive, maternal parents

n Dogs love splashing around in the waves at the beach and digging in the sand, and you’ll love watching your pup have fun

n After a long countryside walk through muddy puddles and colourful leaves, what better way to end the day than to head to a dog friendly pub?

Clare also reminded dog walkers to wear reflective clothing and consider a LED collar to make sure that them and their pets can be seen.