Expert Advice: how to care for your furry friends this Halloween

Ireland’s pet experts Petmania have launched a national alert today that will advise pet owners on how to better care for their furry friends during the Halloween period.

The Irish-owned business, which has 15 stores nationwide, urges the public to take extra caution during this spooky season, by sharing several steps that can be followed to alleviate any stress or anxiety that their pets may experience during Halloween.

The following tips can help owners avoid disruption and any unnecessary stress towards their four-legged family members.

Prepare a safety den

Halloween can bring about many disturbances throughout the night such as door knocking and doorbell ringing. To help ensure that your pet feels safe, Petmania have advised creating a safety den using a pet crate to help them snooze through all the trick-or-treating.

Treat puzzles

To ensure your pet has a ‘hoppy’ Halloween, treat puzzles are a fantastic way to distract your pet from potential stresses such as the doorbell ringing.

Take care of your surroundings

Remember, folks, Halloween candy is for humans, not for your fur babies. Grapes, raisins, and chocolate are toxic to dogs so keep them well out of reach and choose a pet-safe treat instead.

Costumes are optional

Playing dress up can be fun, but it is important that your pet feels comfortable. If your pet is feeling anxious and do not wish to wear a costume, it is best to listen to them. If your pet is a 'purrfectionist' when it comes to their appearance, you can check out Petmania’s range of Halloween pet outfits!

Stay visible

If your pet is accompanying children while trick-or-treating, ensure that they are visible at all times. Reflective collars, leads, and coats will help you to ensure an eye is kept on your pet.

Commenting in advance of the spooky season, Emily Miller, Petmania Spokesperson, says: "Halloween is a time when pets can get easily spooked and run away, and the safest place for them to be is at home in a quiet space. Exercise is still important too so try to keep walks to daylight hours, and keep your pet on a lead when outdoors. We also advise pet owners to ensure their pets are microchipped and wearing an ID Tag, and that all contact details are up to date."

Prioritising our pets’ well-being is important as they can be easily overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of Halloween, such as loud fireworks, spooky decorations, and unfamiliar costumes. Stress can lead to anxiety, digestive issues, and even escape attempts, putting them at risk. By following Petmania’s guidelines to prevent stress during this festive period, you can ensure that your pet has a stress-free and enjoyable Halloween season.

For more information about Petmania, the latest advice on pet healthcare and to find your local store, visit www.petmania.ie.