Saving Grace Petcare sees Capitol Hill pets in ALL states of dress and undress, but we especially love seeing our charges in costumes!
Spot gets down to business
Halloween is such a fun time of year, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure the holiday is as fun for your critter as it is for you.
Tricks may be for kids, but treats are definitely not for pets.
Everyone knows that chocolate and grapes/raisins are toxic to dogs, but you may be surprised by all the products that contain xylitol, one of the most poisonous substances to dogs. Preventative Vet lists more than 700 products to watch out for. Be extra cautious while walking your dog a few days before AND after Halloween. Even discarded wrappers can present digesting issues and cuts in the mouth if eaten.
Keep dogs in a cool, dark, quiet place and especially keep your cats indoors.
Even the friendliest dogs can be stressed by too many door knocks, erratic behavior and strange shapes bopping down your street. That stress can be eliminated by giving them ‘quiet time’ starting at about 5:30pm. A good, vigorous walk before the goblins arrive can be helpful too.
Uma likes a quiet night
Cats, especially (and quite unfairly) black ones, can receive unwanted attention from the crowds on Hill streets. Keeping them sequestered in a bathroom will ensure that Whiskers can’t dart out an open door while you are doling out fun size Snickers ™.
Keeping everyone secure means you won’t have to push past Ghosties and Ghoulies while hunting for a lost fur friend. As always, make sure that all pets have ID tags and microchips. Should your pet slip out, alert The Washington Humane Society, social media, and neighborhood listservs. Lost & Found Dogs DC offers excellent examples of effective flyers and a wide network of folks willing to keep their eyes out to help a pet get home.
Halloween decorations should all be kept out of reach
Flames, electrical cords, and even pumpkins can be dangerous. While pumpkin is tasty and nutritious, eating large, raw chunks can cause intestinal blockage and may be a choking hazard. Instead, toss Jack-o-Lanterns before they can mold or be nibbled. Instead, grab an extra and prepare fresh pumpkin for freezing and mixing in meals. Dogs love it!
Lastly, don’t make your pet wear a costume unless you know for sure they will love it
Cute is fun, but stress is sad!
Avoid heavy, constricting or sharp costume pieces, and be sure to ensure that your pet’s vision is not restricted. Loose, soft, easy to wear pieces are best.
If you need some inspiration, check out these adorable kid and pup combination costumes.
