As the mid-term break draws near, families are busy getting in the spirit for Halloween.

October can be a very stressful time of year for pets, as loud noises from fireworks and busy crowds - plus potentially dangerous foods - can be difficult to avoid.

Irish pet retailer and grooming studios Petmania is highlighting the importance of keeping pets safe throughout the Halloween season by urging pet owners to remember Halloween is a time of great disruption for pets.

Petmania's Emily Miller emphasises the need for pets to be reassured during Halloween.

Extra care

“Halloween is a time where we need to take extra care of our pets. A safety den is a brilliant tool to keep pets at ease. The most important advice we can give is to keep pets indoors for their safety.”

To help manage the disruptions that Halloween can bring, Petmania has compiled its top 10 tips to minimise the impact on pets through this period.

  • 1. Bring your pet to a quiet room and create a safety den, away from the main noise sources such as the front door, doorbell and fireworks. Provide a covered crate and comfortable bed and keep them company.
  • 2. Keep chocolate out of reach - sweet treats can be fatal for pets.
  • 3. A treat puzzle is a fantastic distraction to get pets through loud or stressful periods.
  • 4. Costumes are optional – make sure that any pet costume is comfy and if your pet looks unhappy, don’t persist.
  • 5. Stay indoors – the safest place for your pet is indoors, in a quiet, calm, space away from the visiting covens of trick or treaters.
  • 6. Karma wraps are stress-relieving coats that hug dogs tight to help calm and relax them. Available in size XS through to XL, online and instore, these are suitable for all dog breeds.
  • 7. Candles and lanterns - can easily get knocked over by an excited pet. Keep them out of reach or use a battery-operated version instead.
  • 8. Wear reflective accessories - stay visible outdoors with reflective collars, leads and coats.
  • 9. Pheromone diffusers and natural calming tools such as Pet Remedy, Adaptil or Feliway ranges, which are available in Petmania.
  • 10. Check ID Tags - to make sure that they are secure and the details correct. If your pet gets spooked and runs away, it will be easier to get him/her home safely.
  • For more information on keeping pets safe this Halloween, visit any Petmania store to speak with an expert or visit the online store at www.petmania.ie.

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