Veterinary Ireland has issued advice to pet owners this October ahead of firework season this Halloween, which they have warned, can be a particularly stressful and anxious time for animals:
“This [stress and anxiety] can prevent them from eating and drinking normally, stop them enjoying their evening walks or exercise, and prevent some from going to the toilet.
“For others, the anxiety escalates to a phobia, which can seriously compromise not only their emotional state, but also their physical health too,” Veterinary Ireland said.
It has published a list of tips and recommendations to help alleviate the health risks posed by such stress inducing incidences, urging owners to speak with their local vets about any specific related concerns and to garner “expert first aid”, which may see pets through the festive period.
It also details a list of helpful resources veterinary practices will be able to provide owners, including: “Plug-in diffusers, sprays and collars containing pheromones, food supplements, diets and short-term medications”.
It also advises exercising pets during the day and providing an extra litter tray for cats to avoid their need to go outside.
Veterinary Ireland’s recommendations for Halloween night include;
- Keep pets indoors while closing windows and doors;
- Ensure pets have a safe place to rest in peace;
- Remain closeby to monitor the situation;
- Remain in a calm fashion when fireworks are heard, behaving as usual to avoid triggering a negative reaction from your pet;
- Do not discipline or admonish pets for misbehaving out of fear;
- Exercise pets earlier.
It also recommends distracting pets during fireworks with “long lasting treats, chews or food filled frozen toys to keep them busy”, as opposed to paying them extra attention or comfort, which they say, can actually make matters worse.
Veterinary Ireland advises against forcing pets into costumes if they show signs of discomfort when being dressed up or if they displayed attempts to try and take the costumes off.
The organisation added the following advice regarding trick or treaters and sweet treats:
“Equally remember people wearing costumes, masks and face paints can be very scary for many pets too, especially for younger animals who have not experienced Halloween previously.
“Be mindful if you have visitors to your home wearing costumes, as your pet may not react as you might expect. Your pet might feel safer and calmer in its den or hiding place until your visitors have left.
“Please do not share any of your Halloween sweets or treats with your pet. Chocolate is poisonous for dogs and cats and can lead to severe illness or death in extreme cases. Halloween candy can also be dangerous, as some of the sweeteners used can also cause severe illness and fatalities,” Veterinary Ireland added.