Professional pet photograph, taken by Northern Ireland's top pet photographer in Belfast of Bernese Mountain dog wearing a comedy knife headdress on a red background

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Howl to Keep Your Pet Happy This Halloween

Halloween can be a pretty crazy time for ghosts, goblins and pets – with new visitors popping round to your home, new noises such as fireworks and things they shouldn’t be eating. As dog owners, Graham and Alex have put together a few of their top tips for keeping your furry friends happy this Halloween.

Don’t let your pet get lost

We all like to think our beloved pets know better than to run away and that they would come home if they did – but the sad truth is loud noises and scares can be frightening and spook a pet into acting out of character. Make sure when you answer the door to trick-or-treaters that your pet can’t bolt for it. Ensure they are wearing their collar with contact details at all times in case the worst should happen.

No treats

Yes, we all want to treat our pets for being a good boy or girl… but Halloween treats are really not suitable for pets. Chocolate and raisins are especially toxic… Garlic might keep the vampires away, but it is also poisonous to your pup! Keeps sweets away from nosey paws and a height they can’t reach. If you really want to treat them, you can get specially-made Halloween dog treats that are safe for pets.

Safe place

Fireworks are exciting for humans, but for pets, they can be extremely distressing – especially pups. It’s all new to them and dogs have very sensitive ears. If going to the local fireworks show, don’t bring your dog – it won’t be fun for them. If staying at home, you can help your dog by putting them in the bathtub as they won’t be able to see out and gives the illusion of a safe space.

Professional pet photograph, taken by Northern Ireland's top pet photographer in Belfast of Pug in a tub on a blue backdrop

Glow sticks

I loved these in the 80’s! But if you have a dog like Glyn or Blu who love a good chew of stuff they shouldn’t, then especially beware things like glow sticks. Apart from making one heck of a mess, the chemicals contained in them will make your dog sick.

Don’t take your pet out trick-or-treating

Halloween is a great time of fun for big kids and little kids. But contrary to what some dog owners might think, not every event is actually dog-friendly. Bringing your pet to events where you know they may be overwhelmed or frightened isn’t fair to them. Leave the frightening to the humans this Halloween.