I love Halloween, the decorations, movies, getting all dressed up. But all the things I love about can be quite confusing and scary for our pets. Here are some ways to keep your pet calm and safe this Halloween season.
Keep your cats inside, in a room away from the door. It can be easy for cats to escape while you are doling out candy to the ghosts and goblins. It will be quieter and calmer for them.
I’d also recommend making sure your outdoor cats stay in for the night. While there is no evidence to support the urban myth about increased violence against cats, in particular black cats, on Halloween, increases in traffic, noise and decorations can be hazardous for them.
Speaking of decorations – be aware of your decor – streamers and string can easily be eaten. String lights and cords if left easily accessible can be chewed, causing shocks and possible burns.
If you’re like me, you buy your candy well in advance, eat half of it and then have to buy more before the big day. Make sure you hide your stash well from both yourself and, to prevent toxicity, your furry friends. Chocolate toxicity cases run high this time of the year.
If you go for a sugar-free option, make sure the sweetener isn’t xylitol (sometimes listed as birch sugar). Raisins, not always a favourite though I have always been a fan of Glossettes, can cause kidney disease in our pets.
Including your pets in your Halloween photos in their own adorable costume is very tempting. Einstein and Argyll have been forced into a few costumes over the years. Remember: not all pets will enjoy being in costume. Never leave your pet unattended in a costume. Make sure they fit, and do not obstruct their movement, ability to breath or bark/meow.
Maybe opt for a Halloween-themed collar or bandana instead. If you take your pet trick-or-treating with you and your kids, keep them on a leash and make sure they are visible to drivers and other families.
The new people and constant motion and running of excited kids is a lot for my anxiety-ridden herding dog. Einstein gets a good long walk in the morning and some supplements to help take the edge off his anxiety (more an pet anxiety, treatments and supplements in an upcoming article). I usually try to catch visitors before they have a chance to ring the bell. If your dog has anxiety, speak with your vet about options to help them.
Happy Halloween Everyone!
Dr. Courtney Andrews is a veterinarian in Sudbury, a graduate of the Royal School of Veterinary Studies and dog mom to Argyll and Einstein. Animals & Pets is made possible by our Community Leaders Program.
