Is your animal companion in their golden years? Pets are cute at any age, but they somehow manage to grow even more adorable as they get older. In some ways, senior pets are easier to care for than young ones. However, they need more attention in other areas. You’ll also need to take extra care with your buddy around holidays, including Halloween. In this article, a local Black Hills, SD veterinarian offers some suggestions for enjoying Halloween with your favorite retiree.
Keep Kitties Inside
We always recommend keeping cats indoors. This goes double for senior cats. Fluffy will be weaker and slower than her younger peers, and she may not be able to see or hear as well. This exacerbates the risks already posed by automobiles, weather, stray and wild animals, and contaminants. Furthermore, Fluffy may lose track of her whereabouts and not be able to find her way home. You absolutely do not want that!
We also urge taking extra precautions with black cats. Unfortunately, because of old superstitions, kittens with black fur are vulnerable to malicious pranksters around this time of year. Even if you do let your pet out, limit her activities during the fall season and keep her inside until after Halloween.
Keep Fido Safe Outside
Keeping dogs indoors is not an option, of course. Fido must step outside to relieve himself and get some exercise. Just take extra precautions. To ensure that people—particularly drivers—can see your dog after dark, consider purchasing a light, reflective, or even LED leash and harness. As usual, keep your pooch on a leash. An older pup will be less inclined to chase squirrels, but more prone to tripping or stumbling into traffic.
Do you have a yard for your furry best friend to play in? If so, that’s wonderful. Dogs like and benefit from having outdoor areas to patrol! We still recommend that Fido spend a lot of time indoors this week. Unfortunately, some people will taunt dogs. People in costumes may also bother or scare your canine companion. Unfortunately, passersby may hurl trash into your yard. This can also be a risk.
Do Not Go Overboard With Costumes
We understand how entertaining it might be to see an aging dog dressed up. Fido has worn a variety of amusing costumes over the years, including Viking, pirate, spaghetti, cheeseburger, taco, lion, spider, mailman, bumblebee, and walrus. At this stage of your pet’s life, comfort should always come first. If you wish to put something on your canine companion, make sure it’s not too hot, too tight, too loose, or too hard for your pet to see or move in. Dog costumes should also be non-toxic and non-flammable, with no little or dangling pieces that your pet may try to eat or that could become entangled on something.
Pay attention to the temperature as well. Older dogs are more susceptible to temperature extremes than younger dogs, thus they become hotter or colder faster. It’s not a bad idea to play it safe and go with something minimal, like a cute tie or some antlers.
Keep Things Calm
Costumes can be a lot of fun, but they can also be rather frightening for pets. Fido will not understand that the dinosaur at the door is actually the neighbor’s child, and he may be afraid of the mysterious vampire. Older pets prefer things to be calm and peaceful, and anything out of the ordinary can upset them.
If you’re hosting a party or anticipating trick-or-treaters, take a few steps to keep your elderly pet comfortable. You may want to make a quiet space for Fido and Fluffy. A spare room or quiet bedroom could work well. Include a comfortable bed, some favorite toys, and turn on a television or radio to drown out the noise. If your dog has a crate, he may be more at ease there.
If your pet becomes worried or upset when the doorbell rings, talk to your veterinarian about using pet-calming solutions. There are several options available, including collars, treats, and sprays.
Keep Sweets Out Of Paws’ Reach
Many popular Halloween treats are dangerous to pets. That list includes chocolates, raisins, and anything containing xylitol, sometimes known as birch sugar. Hard candies are also harmful since they can choke your furry friend. Anything high in fat or sugar is not a good choice, either. Choose healthy treats for your animal companion. Your Black Hills, SD veterinarian can offer advice on acceptable choices.
Be Careful With Fire
Jack O Lanterns, candles, torches, and fire pits can all contribute to a comfortable and cozy fall environment. While you should exercise caution around fire with any pet, it is especially crucial to take extra precautions with elderly pets. Older animals have weaker vision and hearing than younger ones. They are also more susceptible to stumbling and falling. Keep your furry buddies away from fireplaces and firepits. If you’re using torches or candles, keep them up high and out of reach of your pets.
Enjoy The Autumn Weather
The weather is usually beautiful this time of year. This is a great time to take Fido for a peaceful walk or to give Fluffy a window seat on an enclosed porch.
Have Fun With Seasonal Toys
Pet product makers have expanded well beyond the classic catnip mouse. You may purchase a range of fascinating seasonal toys for your pet. Fido would look great with a little Dracula or Mummy plush toy. You may also consider giving your cat a catnip bat or spider.
Offer Seasonal Treats
Did you know that many fall favorites are beneficial for pets? Pureed pumpkin, for example, is packed with nutrients. It also helps to alleviate and prevent diarrhea and constipation. Many pets would benefit from having some added to their food. Of course, you’ll want to get specific suggestions from your veterinarian.
Apples are likewise nontoxic, but pets may have trouble chewing them. Sweet potatoes are another good option. You can alternatively serve cooked, boneless chicken or turkey flesh, as well as a sodium-free broth. Ask your Black Hills, SD veterinarian for specific advice.
Take Great Photos
This is also a good time of year to photograph portraits. Our furry friends are always photogenic! Take some adorable photographs of your four-legged retiree! Take those photos at sunrise or sunset to get the finest light.
Provide All The Necessary Comforts
At this time of year, the temperature will quickly chill down. Make sure your pet is warm and comfortable on cold evenings. Thick mattresses are vital because they protect your pet’s bones and joints from rough floors while also providing warmth and insulation. Grooming is also important. If you have a cat, you should start providing Fluffy some extra aid with her grooming routine. Senior cats may have trouble bending and stretching. This makes it difficult for them to cover their entire body. In addition, their fur is frequently greasy. Brushing Fluffy carefully will keep her comfortable.
Schedule An Appointment At Our Black Hills, Sd Pet Hospital
Do you have a senior pet? Are you looking for a high-quality veterinarian in the area? Please do not hesitate to contact us. As your Black Hills, SD animal clinic, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care.
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