Is Halloween a treat for you?

Here are some tricks to avoid it becoming fright night:

1. Familiarization: Help your pet become familiar with the noises and sights associated with Halloween by gradually exposing them to decorations, costumes, and sounds. Start with short periods of exposure and increase them as your pet becomes more comfortable.

2. Safe Space: Create a quiet, comfortable space for your pet where they can retreat during Halloween festivities. This area should be away from the doorbell and loud noises, with their favorite bedding and toys.

3. Distraction: Provide engaging toys or puzzles to keep your pet occupied during the chaos of trick-or-treaters. This can help redirect their focus away from potential stressors.

4. Calming Aids: Consider using calming aids, such as pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps, to help soothe your pet. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new products.

5. Training: Reinforce positive behaviors through training. Use treats and praise when your pet stays calm, rewarding them for handling the Halloween environment without fear.

6. Postpone Activities: If your pet is particularly anxious, consider postponing walks or outdoor activities until after the peak of Halloween festivities to minimize exposure to stressful situations.

By implementing these strategies, you can help ensure that Halloween is a fun and enjoyable time for both you and your pet.Have fun and get creative with these inexpensive Halloween ideas!

But first, did you know pumpkins are…

·  Nutrient dense

·  Super high in antioxidants

·  Great for eye health

·  High in fiber and great for regulating blood glucose levels

Cats don't like sweet flavours, so you don't need to be overly concerned that Fluffy might dive into the Halloween candy. Dogs are another story. Most pet owners are aware of the dangers of chocolate for dogs. But there are other types of sweets that also pose health risks for canine companions, so a good rule of thumb is to keep ALL Halloween candy, cookies and treats like raisins, trail mix and grapes out of the reach of pets.

If you have friends and their dogs coming over for Halloween here are some "Trick or Treat" human and dog-friendly delights you could create

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Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Bites (Tummy-Friendly Dog Treat Recipe)

These easy-to-make treats are gentle on your dog's tummy and packed with the goodness of pumpkin!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree (no added sugar or spices)

• 1/4 cup peanut butter (ensure it's xylitol-free)

• 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional)

• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Mix the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, rolled oats, and egg in a bowl until fully combined.

3. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a lined baking sheet.

4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.

5. Let them cool before serving them as a special treat!

Tip: Store these treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Or if you are feeling extra creative try these from Golden Daily Scoop  

If you are more in the tricking spirit these dodgy doggy delights from Doggy Dessert Chef Peanut Butter Carob Piles might be something you like to share.

A word of WARNING if your family are heading out to join the spook festivities- DON'T tempt your pet with glow sticks or glow-in-the-dark jewelry.   

Glow sticks and jewelry have become very popular, and pets — especially cats — have been known to gnaw on them. Phenol creates the glow, which can leak out and burn your pet's fur and tongue. Choking on small pieces is another concern.

 Some pets love dressing up for Halloween, but others are left cowering under the furniture at the sight of a bug costume or even a tutu. If your pet isn't costume-averse (many dogs and most cats are), make sure whatever you put on them is: 

·         Lightweight to avoid overheating

·         Doesn't confine or restrain their movements in any way

·         Is free of any adornments they might be tempted to chew off and swallow

If they are prone to pick up random food at the park be super vigilant or create a Hannibal Lector or Darth Vader style costume to hit the streets. That way they can still be part of the fun without digestive repercussions. Just make sure that the costume is not uncomfortable to wear, and make sure they get lots of healthy rewards before you put it on and after you take it off.

If your dog is convalescing from surgery or reactive to people knocking on your door go out with them on Halloween to avoid the racing and jumping in the hallway, or stay with them in a back room listening to music or watching tv. You could also place a sign on your door or letterbox.

Even if your pet seems excited by all the noise and activity, excitement is a form of stress, especially for dogs and cats. Know when it's time to remove your pet from the action and tuck them away in a safe, quiet spot in your home.

Zach and Sheba are ready for Howl-o-ween!
How about you?

Do you love it or hate it, and what about your pets?

Tell us in the comments section below.

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