Protect Your Pets

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Halloween can be a very distressing time for pets. Dogs can show anxiety by shivering, shaking, chewing, scratching, panting excessively or attempting to run away. Cats, on the other hand, may cower or hide, house soil, refuse to eat, or also attempting to run away. To help keep your pet in good spirits, follow Veterinary Ireland's top ten tips to protect your pet this spooky season. 

  1. Try to ensure someone remains with your pet when fireworks may be heard, especially on Halloween night. Our pets often have more sensitive hearing than their owners and may get spooked by flashing lights. Your presence will help keep your pet calm and reassured.
  2. Give them a hiding place where they can go to feel safe. Even providing an old t-shirt can give them a sense of your presence. And while a dog may like a comfortable bed on the floor, a cat may prefer a higher-up hideaway!
  3. Keep pets inside with doors and windows closed. This is important as Halloween is a common time for pets to get spooked and go missing or get injured on our roads. Even keeping the radio on can help keep them at ease. 
  4. Exercise your pooch early in the day, especially on 31 October. In the evening, give your pet something to do, such as chewing on a toy! 
  5. Ensure all pets are wearing identification tags and are microchipped. This will help reunite you with your pet in case they do run away.
  6. Ignore fearful behaviour such as panting, shaking or whining. Owners that give their pets extra attention may be seen to reward these behaviours by their pets which can make matters worse over time.
  7. Similarly, do not punish anxious behaviours in your pet as this can increase their anxiety. 
  8. Plug in diffusers, sprays and collars containing pheromones can help to relieve anxiety in pets. In severe cases, your vet may be able to prescribe medication to provide short-term help. 
  9. Do not share any of your Halloween treats with your pet. Remember chocolate is toxic for pets, especially dogs, and can make them very sick.
  10. Remember not all pets like to dress up. If you do pick a costume for your pet, make sure it is the right size and for the right animal and breed - otherwise it might be painful for your pet.