Halloween can be very scary; we like to watch scary movies, even horrifying movies, just to get that “rush.” Our pets, however, do not want to get that same “rush” that we do- they would rather keep things status quo and boring. When the doorbell rings on Halloween night your pet may run to the door as normal but get a really big scare. They will smell that these little creatures at the door are people but they don’t look like people. They may have fun masks on or scary masks…weird clothes and be walking funny and the energy level may be through the roof. Some of the little goblins will have eaten way more sugar than mom or dad would approve of and be overly excited with just the fun of being in costume and being out in the dark… FUN! However, it can be scary for your pets because they don’t understand any of it- it doesn’t make sense to them and they can understand what a “costume” is.  

What can you do to make it less scary for your pet? I’m glad you asked. Perhaps you can make a safe room for your pet.  In this room put on light classical or reggae music or a white noise machine to mask the sounds of the kids. Have some lavender or an Adaptil (for dogs) or Feliway (for cats) diffuser going to help calm them down- just make sure your pet cannot access the lavender, Adaptil or Feliway, as it will give them an upset stomach. Talk with your veterinarian about a sedative if you know your pet gets really scared and may need some extra help with staying calm during the holiday chaos- together you will be able to plan the best solution for your furry loved one. Also, if they have a safe room, there is less chance for them to get out the door when you open it and run away or bite a scary goblin. 

One more thing, don’t forget about leftovers of your own little goblin’s candy. Chocolate is dangerous for your pets and xylitol is deadly when ingested. You want to make sure you put all candy away in a safe place so your pets can’t get into it. Even if they get into non-chocolate or xylitol candy, just like your little trick-or-treaters, they may get a stomach ache from eating too much candy…and no one want to clean up after that mess!  

Be safe and take extra care of your pets this spooky season- they will really appreciate it.

Happy Halloween!

Jon & Crys