Halloween is just around the corner, and while it’s a time of spooky fun for us, it can sometimes be stressful or confusing for our furry friends. But fear not! With a little preparation, you and your pets can enjoy this festive time safely. Whether you’re planning on dressing up your pet or just making the day special with fall-themed treats, we’ve got you covered.
Here are some tips to keep your pet happy and safe, as well as a few fun fall-inspired treat ideas!
Tricks for a Safe Halloween with Your Pets
Halloween comes with a lot of excitement, but it’s important to be mindful of how this fun holiday can affect your pets. Here are some tricks to keep in mind:
- Keep Candy Out of Reach
Halloween candy, especially chocolate and anything containing xylitol, is toxic to both dogs and cats. Make sure all treats are kept far out of reach and remind kids not to share their candy with your pets. If you suspect your pet has gotten into something they shouldn’t, contact us or an emergency vet right away. - Create a Safe Space
Trick-or-treaters can mean a lot of doorbell ringing, loud noises, and unfamiliar faces at your door. This can overwhelm pets, especially cats or anxious dogs. Set up a quiet, comfortable space for them to retreat to during the hustle and bustle. Add their favorite toys, a comfy bed, and maybe some calming music to help them feel secure. - Costume Considerations
Dressing up your pet can be fun, but make sure their costume is safe and comfortable. Avoid costumes that restrict movement, impair vision, or contain small parts that could be chewed off. Always supervise your pet while they’re in costume and remove it immediately if they seem distressed. - Leash Up for Walks
If you’re taking your pet trick-or-treating with the family, keep them on a leash at all times. The excitement and unfamiliar sounds could spook them, causing them to dart off unexpectedly. Reflective collars or harnesses are a great addition for evening walks to ensure your pet is visible in the dark. - Watch the Decorations
Halloween decorations like fake spider webs, small toys, and pumpkins can be dangerous if chewed on or ingested. Be cautious when choosing where to place these decorations, especially if your pets are prone to curiosity. Keep cords from lights or animatronics out of reach to avoid the risk of chewing or tangling.
Fall-Themed Pet Treats: Delicious DIY Ideas
Treat your furry friend to something special with these fall-inspired, pet-friendly treats! These simple recipes are safe for both dogs and cats and can add some seasonal fun to their day.
- Pumpkin and Peanut Butter Bites
Pumpkin is not only a delicious fall flavor, but it’s also great for your pet’s digestion! Mix together canned pumpkin (make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling) with peanut butter and a little bit of oat flour to form a dough. Roll into bite-sized balls and freeze for a tasty, healthy treat. - Apple and Carrot Crunchers
Apples and carrots are packed with vitamins and make for a great snack. Cut apples and carrots into bite-sized pieces (make sure to remove apple seeds) and bake them at a low temperature until they’re crunchy. Your pet will love the crisp texture and natural sweetness. - Sweet Potato Chews
Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber and vitamins. Slice them thinly and bake them slowly at a low temperature to make chewy, nutritious treats for your pet. These are especially great for dogs who love to chew! - Frozen Pumpkin Cubes
For an easy fall-themed treat, blend together pumpkin puree with plain, unsweetened yogurt and freeze in an ice cube tray. Once frozen, pop out the cubes and let your dog or cat enjoy a refreshing, festive snack.
For more recipes and ideas, visit Chewy’s Home Blog
Have Fun with Your Pet: Enter Our Halloween Pet Photo Contest!
Now that you have the tips and treats to ensure a safe and fun Halloween for your pets, don’t forget to share the spooky fun! At Family Friends Veterinary Hospital, we’re hosting our annual Halloween Pet Photo Contest. Whether your pet is donning a costume or just looking festive for fall, we’d love to see your photos!
Submit your pet’s Halloween costume photos to us by November 1st at 8am for a chance to win some fun prizes! Simply send your photos through our website [here]. We can’t wait to see your pet’s spooky (or adorable) outfits!
