Like everything else this year, we have no clue what Halloween may look like for the families of Newmarket, Aurora, Sharon and Holland Landing. Well anywhere actually. Hopefully, you and your family still manage to dress up and make it a fun and happy occasion.
Please keep these things in mind if you are going out.
1. Dressing up your pet for Halloween? Don’t force the issue. Some pets love the attention they get from wearing clothes or costumes. If your pet shows any kind of stress having a costume on, just grab a quick snapshot, take it off and let them go.
2. If your pup enjoys wearing their costume, practice walking in the costume. Give pets time to get acclimated to their costume (and yours) before the big day. Make sure nothing impairs their mobility or vision.
3. Make sure pet tags are up to date. Even the most mild-mannered dog may get spooked by the arrival of ghosts and goblins.
4. Do not use a retractable leash that allows your dog to run ahead of you, pick things off the ground, scare kids or be scared by kids – a short reflective leash is recommended.
5. Keep anxious pets away from the action at the front door. Some pets patiently greet kids who arrive in search of treats. If your pet gets stressed or likes to dash out, put them in another room for the short time the door will be open or closed, or better yet, you stay outside with the candy, so the doorbell is not ringing constantly. This reduces a lot of stress on your pet.
6. Monitor that treat bag. Make sure your pet stays far away from goodie bags and watch for stray pieces of candy that may be on the ground.
7. Don’t leave pets unattended in costumes.
8. Use extra caution around kids. Even if your pet LOVES kids, seeing them running around in strange garb may stress them out and behave in ways you do not normally see.
9. KEEP CATS INDOORS – I cannot stress this enough.
10. Have fun – these simple precautions will ensure everybody has a safe and happy Halloween.
Morag is the owner and founder of York Regions most trusted premier in-home pet care and dog walking companies. In 2000 she saw a need for an alternative to kennels, catteries for family pets in the area and has always believed that pets are much happier and less stressed staying in their own familiar environment. Morag and her team are all certified in Pet 1st Aid and CPR, she also offers continuous training to her team members through online and hands on pet care and pet behaviour and care courses. Morag has earned her certificate in Professional Pet Sitting, Professional Dog Walking and Canine Attendant training. She has lived in the Newmarket/Aurora area since 1991 is a wife, a mother of 2 adult children and a grandmother of 2 delightful little balls of energy. She has also been owned by fish, birds, mice, rats, cats, dogs, gerbils and guinea pigs and is an advocate for all living creatures. In her spare time she likes to be involved in her community and events travelling, reading and cooking.
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