It’s feline like Halloween and keeping our pets safe doesn’t have to be a pain in the neck. Here’s how you can pumpkin spice up this holiday for your pet without the furr-ight!
Cutest pup-kin in the patch
The scary truth about Halloween costumes is that there is a good chance your pet doesn’t want to wear one. While dressing your pet up can be fun, it is important to be sure they are comfortable and safe.
When choosing a costume, be mindful of loose pieces like buttons or ribbons that can be chewed off and swallowed. Ensure a proper fit, particularly around the neck and chest. The costume should not cover the face or restrict range of motion, breathing or field of vision.
Once you’ve selected an appropriate costume, be sure to do a dress rehearsal before the big day. Pay close attention for any signs of anxiety; tail tucked between their legs, ears pinned back or flat, panting, licking the lips, yawning or wide, dilated eyes. If your pet exhibits any of these signs, remove the costume immediately.
When in doubt, you can keep it simple with a festive collar, leash or bandana.
Witch way to the treats
Halloween without treats is a frightful sight, so let’s make sure you choose the right bite.
Avoid human candy, especially those containing chocolate, raisins, sweeteners (like xylitol) as even small amounts can be toxic to our pets. Candy packaging can also pose a risk if swallowed. Keep your candy stash out of reach and consider providing pet-safe alternatives instead.
Packaged pet-safe Halloween treats are available at most pet stores or opt to make your own from the hundreds of recipes available online. Making your own can be especially helpful for pets with food allergies, sensitive stomachs or other dietary restrictions. Look for ingredients like canned pumpkin (plain, avoid pie filling varieties), peanut butter (xylitol-free) or apples (minus the core and seeds) for a safe seasonal snack, just be sure not to over-indulge.
Ding, dong, ditch the doorbell
All but the most social dogs and cats will likely be unsettled by the stream of costumed visitors knocking or ringing the doorbell on Halloween night. Consider leaving them inside and opt to sit outside to hand out candy or if you prefer to remain indoors, try placing a sign asking trick-or-treaters to knock softly when they arrive.
You can distract your pet by setting up a quiet space away from the entrance with some of their favourite toys, bedding, interactive games (like treat puzzle boards or treat balls) with calming music or a white noise machine. Be sure to check-in regularly to offer comfort or treats!
If you choose to have your pet with you while you interact with trick-or-treaters, have them wear a reflective collar or vest and keep them on leash or behind a gate to prevent escape if spooked. Ensure ahead of time that their ID tags are legible and your contact information is up to date in case of an emergency.
Halloween parties and trick-or-treating increase car and foot traffic, while outdoor Halloween displays can minimize visibility near streets and roadways. For your outdoor cat’s safety, keep them inside after dark on the nights leading up to Halloween (particularly on the weekends) and on Halloween night, even after curfew.
Other purr-anormal activities
You can prevent Halloween howls and still enjoy this spook-tacular holiday at home by setting up a pet-friendly fall photoshoot or staging an indoor trick-or-treat adventure with festive treats or toys for your dog or cat.
For your more adventurous pet, check out a pet-safe/allowed pumpkin patch, or enjoy a local pet-friendly trail with lots of fall foliage.
So, don’t fly off the handle, Halloween doesn’t have to be scary. With the proper planning, you and your pet can stay safe and have fun this Halloween. No ifs, ands or boos about it.
