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KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE THIS HALLOWEEN
Trick or Treating & Halloween parties will be here soon. We take care to safe guard our kids as they head out into the night, and we need to take care of our four legged family members too. Here are some important reminders;
1. Keep Halloween candy away from your dog
Accidentally scoffing down a load of candy can give your dog stomach upset and diarrhea, and some of that candy can be deadly! Chocolate, especially dark, even in the smallest amount can be very toxic, and artificial sweeteners (Xylitol is found in gum) are poisonous too!
2. Costumes are fun for kids, but not so much for your dog
Some dogs are natural hams who love to be dressed up. If that's your dog, ensure the costume doesn't have small pieces to be chewed off and your dog's movement and breathing aren't constricted. Try the costume on a few times before the big night, and don't leave your dog unattended in costume. Best idea, take a couple pictures and remove it.
For most dogs being dressed up is very stressful. Dress your dog up with a special Halloween collar or bandana, they will thank you for it!
3. Night time can be dangerous
If you are walking the neighbourhood with the kids, leave your dog at home. All those strange sights and sounds in the dark can be upsetting and your otherwise calm and friendly dog may become agitated and increase the potential for dog bites.
In the dark you won't know if s/he accidentally eats dropped candy.
NEVER leave your dog unsupervised in your yard or outside anywhere. There are people who use this time of year as an excuse to do cruel and violent things to all sorts of animals.
4. Ding Dong
Some dogs find the constant ringing of the doorbell and the appearance of strange and excited little people very stressful and they'd prefer to be in another room, away from the opening and closing door.
Make sure your dog has his/her collar on, or is micro-chipped in the event your dog bolts out the front door.
5. Skeletons, Dried Corn, Hay and Candles
Keep your dog safe during the party by making sure decorations are out of reach of curious mouths, and candles are away from wagging tales (up on a mantel or counter is the safest, instead of a coffee or side table).
Watch your guests don't feed your dog or you could be in for days of diarrhea. Better yet, let your guests know in advance not to give your dog ANY food at all.
6. Halloween Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin, (not for making pies it has spices in it), for your dog is now available. Added to food, or frozen into cubes, it's a tasty treat for your dog. It's packed full of vitamins, antioxidants, dietary fibre and great for a healthy digestive system. Check it out at your local grocery or pet store.
Looking for a great pumpkin stencil? We have a bunch here
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