Spooky Season Safety Guide for Pets From Barry’s Vets

Jack-o'-lanterns illuminating the neighbourhood, creepy cobwebs draped across windowsills and a buzz of mischief in the air - it can only be the highly anticipated build-up to Halloween. This much-loved festivity brings a lot of excitement to households in Co. Down, but for many owners, it can also mean more stress for their furry friends.

To help your pets enjoy the season, our team at Barry's Vets are sharing some spooky safety tips, helping you to keep things all treat and no trick!

If your pet needs some additional support with anxiety or behaviour, don't hesitate to book an appointment today.

Doorbells and company

While exciting for some pets, for many dogs and cats a constant stream of doorbell rings can feel overwhelming, especially for protective dogs who like to guard the home. Masks and costumes change how we look and smell, so both new guests and familiar friends can become potentially frightening to your pet.

Our team at Barry's Vets recommend keeping them away from the action in a safe and quiet room with plenty of toys and enrichment to distract them, ideally with some supervision.

We also suggest feeding your pet and/or taking them for exercise before the trick-or-treating begins, so they can enjoy their normal activities while things are still relaxed.

If your pet's stress and anxiety levels are feeling unmanageable, get in touch - our friendly vets in Dromore can talk you through a personalised anxiety treatment plan and recommend any calming aids that may be suitable.

The great pet costume debate

Whilst some Halloween pet costumes can look adorable, at Barry's Vets we advise proceeding with caution. Many pets do not enjoy being dressed up, and some costumes can restrict their movement and make them uncomfortable. If this happens, we advise removing the costume right away.

Signs of discomfort can include flattened ears, a tucked tail, showing the whites of their eyes, or difficulty moving properly.

If you are going ahead, keep it minimal and breathable and let your pet's reaction guide you.

Halloween sweets - treats for you, tricks for them

Our veterinary team at Barry's Vets advise keeping sweets in a high, closed cupboard or cabinet where they are safely out of reach. Pay extra attention to any children who may be carrying sweets and make sure nothing is shared with your pet.

If your pet manages to sneak a harmful snack, don't wait - call us straight away on (028) 921 06130.

Fun fact: Pumpkin can be a nutritious treat for your dog and can even be beneficial for their digestive health! Try feeding them a small amount of plain, cooked pumpkin to get them involved in the festivities.

We also suggest keeping jack-o'-lanterns out of your pet's reach - carved pumpkins can grow mould and bacteria, and the tealight inside poses a burn or fire hazard.

Decorate mindfully

Finally, be aware that some decorations pose risks to your pet. Here's what to consider:

• Open flames such as candles may create a burn risk, or fire hazard if knocked over
• Small loose items such as rubber eyeballs pose a choking risk
• Fake cobwebs may choke or entangle pets who try to play with them
• Glow sticks or fake blood can be toxic if consumed by your pet

Instead, opt for non-toxic decorations hung high and safely out of reach.

We aren't here to ruin the fun! We encourage owners to experiment with spooky-themed pet toys or create pet-safe decorations such as a cardboard haunted house - loved by cats especially.

We hope you and your pet can now go forth with confidence and enjoy the spookiest night of the year here in Co. Down. If you have any questions or need additional support, don't hesitate - get personalised advice today.