31/10/2024
Happy Halloween from me and the gang ππΈοΈπ» Happy Halloween folks If you plan to integrate your pet into the eveningβs festivities, be aware of the following four safety hazards:
Costumes β Some animals donβt mind, and even possibly enjoy, the fun of getting dressed up. If your pet falls into this camp, make sure he or she can breathe, see, bark or meow, hear, and move comfortably. If your pet appears agitated, frustrated, or tired, itβs time to free them from the costume. Also be sure to monitor your petβs temperature and hydration, and always keep an eye on costume parts that could be chewed off or choked on.
Treats β Please keep all treats out of your petβs reach. This includes the treats you are offering trick-or-treaters and any that might come back to your house in a treat bag. Treats made with any chocolate or Xylitol (a popular alternative sweetener) are strictly off-limits, as are any treats containing raisins or macadamia nuts.
A possible preventative measure would be to store all treats in a lidded container that your pet cannot break into. Be aware of candy wrappers left strewn about. These can cause major digestive issues βincluding choking β and should never be left out.
Decor β Decorations that involve electricity should be used sparingly around your pets. They can easily become entangled in power cords that could result in a life-threatening electric shock. Some flashing, moving, or talking special effects can be scary or disorienting to animals. Keep your pumpkin outside because a lit candle inside could be dangerous around inquisitive or accident-prone pets. If you decorate with glow sticks, be advised that, if chewed on, a dangerous chemical can leach out causing gagging, vomiting and drooling.
Identification β We recommend keeping your pet inside at night at least a few days prior to Halloween. However, itβs better to be safe than sorry, be sure to check your petβs tags and update microchip information. Pets who are stressed may behave in a way that is unsafe which could easily result in your pet darting out the door. Fastening a reflective collar is also a great idea to keep your pet visible at night.
Hide Out β While some pets react extremely well to a change in routine, strange smells and noises, and a constant barrage of unfamiliar and costumed people at the door, they are generally the exception. If you are unsure of how your pet may fair, or you absolutely know for certain that their anxiety and stress will rule the night, make appropriate preparations to mitigate their discomfort. Create a safe space away from all the action that is a petβs paradise: soft cushions, blankets, water, litter box (if needed), music or television to mask the noise at the door, and even special pet treats will round out this cozy scene for him or her. When the last trick-or-treater retreats, bring your pet back out and offer lots of snuggles and affection.
If you are concerned about how your pet will cope at Halloween, consider using either Feliway or Adaptil.
Adaptil collars, sprays & diffusers are excellent for relaxing your dog. These products release natural
Adaptil-Collar_largecalming pheromones which help calm your pet during stressful situations. Plugging in an Adaptil difusser close to your dogs den, or attaching an Adaptil collar to your dog or spraying the diffuser in the room will all help to settle and relax your dog. We recommend you use these products in the run up to Halloween, ideally you should start to use them 3 or 4 weeks prior to Halloween. Adaptil helps both puppies & adult dogs cope better in stressful situations such as fireworks and loud noises around this season.
Feliway is recommended for your cats. Feliway helps cats feel safe & secure in their own environment. This special scent (odourless to people and other animals) that Feliway utilizes is a replication of the pheromone that cats leave naturally when they are feeling comfortable in their environment. Every time a cat rubs its nose against objects in the home, it leaves behind this pheromone to mark its territory. Feliway comes in a plug in diffuser pack or as a spray & reduces stress which will make your cat more relaxed. Stay safe folks ππ»πΆπΆ