The noise and commotion of Halloween can be very distressing to some pets, and may drive them to unusual or extreme behaviour.
To avoid your pet escaping, ensure that your dog or cat is kept in a secure place in the house where they will not be able to slip out if the door is open. You can leave a TV or radio on to drown out some of the noise of fireworks and children calling to the door.
If you pet is truly terrified of fireworks and you are concerned about them, you may want to consult with your vet in advance, and ask them about training or medication to help with your pets’ stress.
Remember, candles and decorations can be hazardous for your pets if they knock them over or try to chew them. Chocolate is highly toxic and other sweets can make them ill as well, so keeping all of these out of reach is really important for your pets’ safety.
Here are some extra tips on keeping your pets safe and secure this Halloween.
1. Dogs and cats
- If children will be calling to your door trick-or-treating make sure your pets are securely confined so they cannot stray or react negatively to scary costumes.
- Pets should have somewhere to hide if frightened by the noise so a quiet room in the house with closed curtains and music playing wil help.
- Keep pets away from any dangerous or flammable items including candles, bonfires and fireworks.
- Keep pets away from decorations and sweets that could be harmful if ingested. Remember that chocolate is dangerous.
- If your animal is showing signs of fear do not react or make a fuss as this will make matters worse. As difficult as it may be, try to ignore fearful behaviour.
- Steps can be taken to minimise the stress caused to pets by training them in the run up to the Halloween festivities. The use of dog appeasing pheromones can also be effective. Consult your vet or animal behaviourist for advice.
- Anxiety in the animal can be reduced by altering feeding regimes. Feeding later in the evening will encourage the animal to eat during what are anxiety-creating periods.
- Licking objects such as Kongs filled with peanut butter will help reduce stress.
- Playing with them can be effective in reducing stress if they are up for a game. If not, do not try to force them.
2. Small Animals
- Small animals and birds normally housed outside should ideally be moved into a garage or shed. If this is not possible cover hutches or cages with blankets or carpet to act as sound-proofing.
- Provide increased amounts of bedding for extra security.
3. Equines
- Horses, ponies and donkeys that live in areas where there is a considerable amount of Halloween related noise should be securely stabled to prevent them doing damage to themselves.
Please take precautions this year to ensure your pets stay safe, calm and remain indoors this Halloween so the festivities can be a safe and enjoyable time for everyone.
