Happy Pet Halloween!!

 

Happy Pet Halloween!  While we find enjoyment in cooing over costumes, and giving out candy to children; our pets often find the same thing to be incredibly Frightening. It’s a night filled with doorbells ringing and children screaming “Trick or Treat” , and ample opportunities for our pets to get lost in the mix.

Here are some tips and tricks to making sure you and your furry companion had the happiest Halloween possible.

 

Happy Pet Halloween | Decorations

When preparing for fright night you want to make sure you have your pet in mind when choosing how to decorate your home. Limit decorations that make excessive noise, or are a health hazard to your pet.  Avoid cobweb decorations.

These are the webs that attach to the side of the house, lighting fixtures and doorways. These cobweb decorations are a safety hazard for cats. Cats will often climb into these cobwebs, and get themselves stuck. Many pets will also try eating them, which can lead to an intestinal blockage.

 

Sweet Tables are another decorative item that you have to be incredibly careful about during Halloween. Take extra precautions with any treats you may have laying around after you’ve been trick or treating. Not only is chocolate toxic to cats and dogs, but other sugary treats are sure to give your pet an upset stomach as well.

 

Keep an eye on your pumpkins. Despite the fact that fresh pumpkin can benefit your pet greatly, the same cannot be said for jack o lanterns.

 

Candles pose a risk to your pup’s wagging tail, so make sure they are kept at a safe distance. Also, as your jack o lanterns sit out, they breed bacteria and mold which is harmful if your dog tries to take a bite out of it.

 

 

Happy Pet Halloween | Costume Safety

A Survey done by the National Retail Federation  states that in 2020 18% of pet owners planned to dress their pets in costumes for Halloween, up from 17% the previous year. The top three choices of pet costume were pumpkins, hot dogs, and superheroes.

 

Some pet guardians enjoy dressing up their animals for Halloween, but not all pets enjoy being dressed up.

 

Oftentimes we as pet owners do not realize the stress we are putting our pets in by putting them in holiday related get-ups. Make sure that you are looking out for signs of distress if you are going to be getting your cat or dog an outfit this season.

 

You will be able to tell fairly quickly if your pet doesn’t like being dressed up. You may notice they paw at themselves, or the costume. They may pace, or pant. It may even be that they stay in place and do not want to move around once donned in their Halloween garb.

 

Make sure you choose pet-safe outfits if your pet enjoys being dressed up. These often have “quick release” fasteners (like Velcro).

 

Also be aware that you are buying costumes in the right size, as well as in seasonally appropriate fabrics. If you live in a warmer climate opt for seasonal bandanas, or collar decorations instead of full outfits to prevent overheating.

 

 

Happy Pet Halloween | Keeping Stress and Anxiety at Bay

For people; the idea of new monsters showing up and ringing the doorbell for hours on end during Halloween night is a laugh; but it can be scary for animals.

The constant hubbub of trick or treaters at the door can be overwhelming for pets; especially those with sensitive hearing or social nervousness. Be aware of your pet’s behavior throughout the night, and look out for the following signs of stress and anxiety;

 

 

Pacing and / or Shaking

Pacing and/or shaking – This is a common reaction of fear in pets. Oftentimes you will notice an animal walking in circles, looking to get comfortable, but not being able to settle down. You may also notice your pet walking from room to room looking to escape the noises.

 

Whining and Barking

Whining, Barking, and any other Unusual sounds – It is crucial that we as pet owners can pick up on vocal cues from our pets. Our furry friends can’t just let us know when something is bothering them, but vocalization is a great indicator of our pet’s moods.

Whining in dogs is a hint that they are feeling anxious. Your dog may bark if he is frightened, or if he is irritated.

 

Drooling and / or Licking

Drooling and/or Licking – When dogs become stressed they tend to drool excessively and lick themselves more than usual. This may also be accompanied by increased yawning which can then lead to more vocalizations from your pet.

 

Body Language

Body Language – Including panting, tucked tails, and tucked ears. Dogs will often exhibit these behaviors when trying to separate themselves from stress inducing situations.

 

When it comes to cats, signs of stress may be slightly different. Cats often do a better job at separating themselves when they are uncomfortable. This may include moving into another room, or hiding under furniture.

 

Still be aware of any unusual behavior from your cat, as this could be a sign of anxiety and take time to offer comfort to them.

 

Steps to keep the anxiety at bay

If your pet is showing clear signs of distress there are many steps you can take to calm them down. The easiest way to do this would be to remove your pet from the stressor altogether.

If you notice that your pet is constantly stressing out around Halloween, then your best bet is to take a step back from the holiday (if possible).

 

Opt for a quiet night

Opt for a quiet night in, lights off and a good movie. If this is not an option for you and your lifestyle there are other ways to relieve short term stress.

 

Reduce the noise

Separate your pet from the noise as much as possible. Set up a safe zone for them in another room, away from all of the shouting, and knocking. Be sure to make them comfortable, with a nice area to relax, and some of their favorite toys, treats or blankets.

 

If the noise is a lot, consider putting on white noise, music or a television for them to help block out some of the stressful sounds. Having a safe area for your pet will also prevent them from being able to run out of the front door as you are handing out candy.

 

Keep your pet distracted. This could include playing with your pet; tossing around a toy or tugging rope together. You may also be able to distract them by simply giving them lots of love and affection. Cuddle up with them, and give them lots of belly rubs to let them know that everything is alright.

 

Trick or Treating Safety

 

If you are planning on a night out, hunting down candy with the family and want to bring your beloved pup along with you there are a few things to consider. You as a pet owner should know your dog’s temperament well.

 

Taking your dog  trick or treating is a good idea if they don’t get easily stressed out by new people, noises, or animals. If your pet tends to be more shy or skittish, it may be best to leave them in the comfort of home.

 

If you do decide to take your dog out with you, keep him/her on a  leash at all times. While you may have a well behaved pup, the excitement of Halloween may prove to be a little overwhelming.

 

This could slightly alter your pets behavior. You also don’t know what other animals you may come into contact with. Your safest bet is to keep your furry friend close by.

 

Stay on public walkways. While a lot of people are going to coo over your adorably dressed animal, not everyone feels comfortable around dogs.  Do not enter a person’s property without their permission, and do not approach anyone or any animal that does not seem open to socialization.

 

Make sure tags are up to date. If for any reason your pup gets away from you during the hubbub of Halloween, you want to do everything you can to ensure you bring them home safely. Having up to date id tags and a microchip is your best guarantee.

 

Bring the necessities. If you know you will be out for a long time. Make sure that you are bringing treats, and water for Fido. If your pet is excited, this can lead to extra panting, and/or drooling and you will want to make sure you are keeping your pup hydrated.

 

Keep cats indoors. The cat should be safely tucked away at home for the night. Even if you do have an outdoor cat, there is a lot of added excitement on Halloween night.  This could add to accidents, or anxiety for kitties.

 

Hopefully these tips and tricks will lead you and your pet to a very Happy Howl-o-Ween! Have fun and be safe.