Is Halloween a treat for you?

 

Here are some tricks to avoid it becoming fright night

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 pet healthy treats you might like to make or buy for the occasion. Or better still you could create some "Trick or Treat" human and dog friendly delights. Like these ones from Golden Daily Scoop  

Or these dodgy doggy delights from Doggy Dessert Chef Peanut Butter Carob Piles  

But a word of WARNING - DON'T tempt your pet with glow sticks or glow-in-the-dark jewellery.   

Glow sticks and jewellery have become very popular, and pets — especially cats — have been known to gnaw on them. The substance that creates the glow is phenol, 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), just make sure whatever you put on him is: 

·         Lightweight to avoid overheating

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

·         Is free of any adornments he 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.

 

Tommy and Blossom 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.