Is your animal partner in their golden years? Pets are cute at any age, but they are especially adorable as they become older. In some ways, older pets are simpler to care for than younger ones. However, they require further attention in other areas. You should also be cautious with aged pets around Halloween. In this article, a local Fayetteville, NC veterinarian shares some tips for spending Halloween with your beloved retiree.

Keep Sweets Out of Paw’s Reach

Many popular Halloween delicacies are harmful to our pets. That list includes chocolates, raisins, and anything containing xylitol, often known as birch sugar. Hard candies are also dangerous since they can choke people. Anything heavy in fat or sugar is likewise not a suitable option for an elderly dog. Choose healthful treats for your animal buddy. Your Fayetteville, NC veterinarian can propose suitable alternatives.

Be Careful With Fire

Jack O Lanterns, candles, torches, and fire pits can all help create a cozy fall environment. While you should be cautious around fire with any pet, it is especially important to take extra precautions with elders. Older animals have poorer vision and hearing than their younger counterparts. They are also prone to tripping and falling. Keep pets away from fireplaces and firepits. If you’re using torches or candles, keep them high and secure, out of reach of your furry besties.

Keep Pets Inside

We always advocate keeping cats inside. This goes double for senior kitties. Fluffy will not only be weaker and slower than her younger counterparts, but she may also not be able to see and hear as clearly. This compounds the threats already posed by vehicles, weather, and toxins. Furthermore, Fluffy may lose track of where she is and be unable to find her way home. You definitely don’t want that! 

We also recommend taking extra precautions with black cats. Unfortunately, due to historical superstitions, kittens with black fur are at risk from nasty pranksters during this time of year. Even if you do allow your pet to go out, limit her activities during the autumn holiday, and keep her in until after Halloween.

Keep Fido Safe Outside

Keeping dogs indoors will not be an option, of course. Fido needs to go outside to relieve himself and get some exercise. Just take some extra care. It’s a good idea to purchase a light, reflective, or even LED leash and harness to help ensure that people—especially drivers—can see your dog after dark. As always, keep your dog on a leash. With an older dog, your pup may be less likely to take off chasing squirrels, but he is more likely to trip or stumble into the road.

If you have a yard for your dog to play in, that is great. Dogs love and benefit from having outdoor spots to patrol! However, we still urge that Fido spend a lot of time indoors this week. Unfortunately, some individuals will taunt dogs. People wearing costumes may also potentially irritate or frighten your dog. There’s also a chance of passers-by tossing trash into your yard, unfortunately.

Do Not Go Overboard With Costumes

We understand how charming it might be to see an older dog dressed up. Fido has worn some really fun costumes throughout the years, including Viking, pirate, spaghetti, cheeseburger, mailman, bumblebee, and walrus. At this point in your pet’s life, comfort should always come first. If you want to put something on your canine buddy, be sure it’s not too hot, too tight, too loose, or too difficult for your pet to see or move in. Dog costumes should also be non-toxic and non-flammable, with no little or dangling bits that could get stuck on something. 

Pay attention to the temperature as well. Older dogs are more sensitive to weather extremes than younger dogs, so they get hotter or colder more quickly.

Keep Things Calm

Costumes can be a lot of fun, but they can also be very intimidating for pets. Fido will not comprehend that the dinosaur at the door is actually the neighbor’s child, and he may be terrified of the eerie vampire. Older pets also prefer things to be nice and tranquil, and they can become very agitated by anything out of the ordinary.

If you’re throwing a party or expecting trick-or-treaters, take a few precautions to keep your senior pet comfortable. You may wish to create a quiet area for Fido and Fluffy. A spare room or quiet bedroom may work nicely. Include a comfortable bed, some favorite toys, and turn on a television or radio to drown out the sounds. If your dog has a crate, he may feel more at ease in that.

If your pet becomes anxious or agitated when the doorbell rings, consult your veterinarian for advice on utilizing pet-calming remedies. There are numerous choices available, including collars, treats, and sprays.

Enjoy The Weather

This time of year, the weather is often stunning. This is an excellent opportunity to take Fido for a quiet walk or to give Fluffy a window seat on an enclosed porch.

Have Fun With Toys

Pet product manufacturers have gone far beyond the traditional catnip mouse. You may acquire a variety of exciting seasonal toys for your pet. Fido would look wonderful with a small Dracula or Mummy plush toy. You might also consider getting your cat a catnip bat or spider.

Provide All Necessary Comforts

At this time of year, the weather will begin to cool down pretty quickly. Make sure your pet is warm and cozy on colder nights. Thick mattresses are essential because they not only protect your pet’s bones and joints from hard flooring, but also provide warmth and insulation. Grooming is also crucial. If you have a cat, you might want to start giving Fluffy some extra help with her beauty routine. Senior cats often have difficulty bending and stretching. This makes it difficult for them to reach their entire bodies. In addition, their fur is often oily. Brushing Fluffy gently will help her stay comfortable.

Offer Seasonal Treats

Did you realize that many fall favorites are good for pets? Pureed pumpkin, for example, is loaded with nutrients. It also helps to reduce and prevent both diarrhea and constipation. Many pets would benefit from having some added to their chow. Of course, you’ll want to seek precise recommendations from your veterinarian.

Apples are also harmless, however pets may have difficulty chewing them. Sweet potatoes are another nice choice. You can also serve cooked, boneless chicken or turkey meat, or some sodium-free broth. Ask your Fayetteville, NC veterinarian for particular guidance.

Take That Photo

This is also an ideal time of year to take portraits. Our furry pals are always photogenic! Take some cute photos of your four-legged retiree! Snap those pics at sunrise or sundown to get the best light. 

Book An Appointment At Our Fayetteville, NC Pet Hospital

Do you own a senior pet? Are you looking for a top-notch veterinarian in the area? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. As your Fayetteville, NC animal clinic, we are committed to providing excellent treatment.