Here are some tips to make Halloween fun and safe for your pets:
Costumes
Dress your pet only if you are certain he or she likes to be dressed. If you decide your pet likes to be dressed, make sure their costume is safe to wear. Make sure it does not restrict movement, or the ability to breathe, bark, or meow.
Check for decorations on the costume that could be chewed or swallowed or in some way harmful.
Try the costume on before the big night to give your dog a chance to get used to it.
Consider a Halloween bandanna instead of a full costume.
Picture from Petco.com
If you are having Trick or Treaters at your home…
Keep your pets confined to a safe space with something wonderful to chew or play with. Constant opening and closing of the door is an increased risk for some one to escape. Seeing visitors in strange attire and moving differently can be very scary to your pet.
Photo Credit http://www.keeferealestate.com/blog/2013/10/14/elkhorn-delavan-lake-geneva-trick-or-treat-times/
Keep your pets inside and not left out in the yard
Sadly, pranksters can be dangerous to your pet during this event. Make sure your pet has ID tags with phone numbers
When treats are around…
be sure to keep them out of reach of your pet. Many human treats, including chocolate, raisins, sugar free gum, and some nuts are toxic to dogs.
Cats in particular seem to find glowsticks and glow jewelry very tasty. This can be harmful as they can cause profuse drooling foaming, pain, and irritation of the mouth.
If you or your children are dressing up for Halloween
Have your dog see them dressed up before the event. It can also help for your dog to be in the room while you get dressed, so they understand the transition from their regular family member to their spooky dressed-up family member. Your dog knows your family but has likely not seen them dressed up and moving strangely. This can be very alarming to a pet.
Treats for dogs
Two of the most popular flavors for fall, pumpkin and apple, can be enjoyed by our canine companions as well! Canned pumpkin (NOT pie filling - sorry, doggies) can be added by the spoonful to your dog’s usual food as a tasty treat that’s easy on the digestive system.
Photo credit http://www.phillymag.com/be-well-philly/2015/09/17/where-to-pick-apples-pumpkins-philadelphia/
In large quantity, apple can cause diarrhea, but in moderation it’s a fun treat. Be careful not to let your dog eat the core or seeds. Dried apple is a fun treat as well.
You can also try some of these recipes:
Perhaps the easiest pumpkin and apple recipe is just mixing some things together and freezing them - You can mix 1 can of pumpkin and 1c of applesauce with 1/2C lowfat cottage cheese and freeze this in kongs for a fun activity, or in an ice cube tray to be given as frozen “pupsicle” treats.
Those of you who are more ambitious chefs can also try these yummy pumpkin biscuits:
INGREDIENTS
- 2 eggs
- 1⁄2 cup canned pumpkin
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons dry milk
- 2 1⁄2 cups flour (you can use oat flour for dogs who are sensitive to wheat)
- water
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Blend eggs and pumpkin together; add salt, dry milk, and flour.
- Add water as needed to make the dough somewhat workable.
- The dough should be dry and stiff, don't be concerned with crumbs being left in the bowl.
- You will need to mix this with your hands because it is too stiff for an electric mixer.
- Roll to 1/2-inch thick.
- Cut into shapes.
- Place 1" apart on ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes on one side, then turn over and bake another 20 minutes.
But in my opinion, the very best thing fall treat is spending time outside. Remember that the cool air feels just as refreshing to your dog as it does to you, and try to get in some extra walks. Who knows, your dog’s super-sniffer may be a big help when you’re lost in a North GA corn maze! Play catch with a football, jump into a big pile of leaves, and remember to cut loose and enjoy the season.
Photo credit http://familypet.com/5-cool-fall-activities-for-you-and-your-dog/
