Halloween is definitely a very different time of year with lots of unusual festivities and noise for our dogs to try and comprehend. They will be relying on us more than ever to keep them safe ans help them cope with all of the fuss and spooks.
The night itself may be a frightful one for your madra as there will be the typical bangers and fireworks, even more if you live in a city, the run up to Halloween can be more than a little spooky for your dog if we don’t take some steps to keep them safe and happy at this eventful time of year.
First things first, we know chocolate is dangerous for dogs. As well as the trick or treat bowl at the front door, remember any of your personal stash for the horror movie marathon, things like chocolate and chewy sweets that contain a sugar called xyltol is highly toxic and potentially lethal to dogs. If you suspect your dog has ingested any of the sweet stash, you should contact your vet ASAP.
Remember, all the extra costumes and noises are terrifying for animals and usually start quite early in the month. Allow dogs to approach costumes and spooky stuff at their own pace and don’t force them to interact with anything they’re behaving fearful towards. If you’re planning to head out to celebrate Halloween, dogs should be kept indoors and away from all the commotion and loud noises outside. Be sure they are secure and don’t run the risk of getting distressed and getting out. Please ensure they are chipped and wearing an ID tag so can be immediately traced back to you. If your dog asks for support, is needier than usual or hiding behind you for comfort, don’t be afraid to reassure your dog if they get stressed. It is much easier for a dog to comprehend the loud noises if they see their homelife and family carry on and act as normal as well and use soothing, calm tones when talking to them.
It will benefit them in the long run and help them feel more secure. So remain calm, turn the volume of the TV or radio up and this will help your dog settle.
Many dogs also benefit from a makeshift den such as a crate with a blanket draped over it or a coffee table with a bed underneath it so they feel they have a quiet spot to retreat to should they feel distressed. If your pet finds bangers or fireworks very stressful, speak to your veterinarian about what you can do for them as there are other tips such a thunder shirts or calming medication that your vet can help you with. When the big night comes, be sure to keep your four legged family member somewhere safe and secure, perhaps in the sitting room with a family member with a closed door and a loud tv to help drown out the possible loud outdoor noises.
Unfortunately, Halloween is a common time of year for pets to go missing with the extra loud noises and excitable dogs darting outside or getting spooked by bangers or fireworks on walks and going missing. Many nervous rescue dogs, especially, find Halloween very scary as you can imagine and can benefit from a makeshift den or cosy, dark crate they can feel safe and secure in during festivities. As always, but especially at this time of year, be sure to have your pet chipped and registered with your up to date details so that should the worst happen, they can be traced straight back to you if they go missing. Also, be sure your dog’s collar has an ID tag with your phone number/s, your vet’s name and phone number etc. so he can be quickly identified and you can be contacted in case.
As cute as they can be, be sure to not force a costume on your pet if you think it makes them uncomfortable. Although some pets don’t mind wearing costumes, others can find it stressful or restrictive and their comfort is number one priority. Perhaps, try a festive bandana or bow on their collar instead. If they are the type of dog that does not mind costumes, be sure they are fitted correctly and there are no dangly parts or restrictive parts that could get caught or cause injury to your pet. Be sure your dogs are kept away from lit candles or lanterns as waggy tails can be hazardous to a lit Jack O’Lantern. Remember to keep an eye out for animals in need at this time of year as many animals are found lost or straying or end up in dangerous situations at Halloween, if you see an animal in discomfort be sure to ring An Garda Siochana or the ISPCA cruelty helpline at 1890 515515 . These tips can all contribute to keeping your dog safe, happy and healthy at Halloween and keep it more fun and less spooky for everyone!
