Getting Ready for Halloween: Vet Offers Dog Safety Tips

With Halloween swiftly approaching, Dublin 08 and its neighbouring areas have already started experiencing sporadic firecracker displays, hinting at the festive season ahead. Considering these circumstances, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of your beloved canine companions. To this end, our veterinary expert Dr. Orla Fitzgerald is sharing essential tips to help dog owners prepare for the upcoming Halloween festivities. 

1. Create a Safe Haven: During Halloween celebrations, it is necessary to provide your dog with a secure and comforting space. Choose a suitable room in your home with your dog’s favourite toys where you can establish a cozy den for your dog to seek refuge before the fireworks begin.  

2. Masking Sounds: Upon hearing the fireworks, increase the volume on the radio, close the windows, curtains and blinds in your dog's safe room to help mask the sounds of the fireworks. If your dog exhibits anxiety and has trouble calming down, consider joining them in the room during this period. Providing companionship can make a significant difference for both your four-legged and two-legged family members. 

3. Pre-emptively exercise Your Dog: Make sure your dog receives an ample amount of exercise earlier in the day, before the Halloween fireworks kick off. It is advisable to exercise noise phobic dogs on the lead only during this period. But, if you've observed that your dog is anxious about loud noises, limit your walks in the days leading up to Halloween.  

4. Calming Aids: For dogs that experience mild anxiety, consider using products like Adaptil synthetic pheromone collars and diffusers, body wrap or thunder shirts. If your dog has previously experienced severe panic or noise sensitivity during the firework season, consult your veterinarian for prescription medication. 

5. Minimize Exposure: Even if your dog isn't fearful of fireworks, it's unwise to expose them unnecessarily. Avoid taking your dog outside during such celebrations. Many dogs initially tolerate fireworks but may develop a fear of them in subsequent years. 

6. Sound Training: Young dogs can be prepared for Halloween celebrations by exposing them to various sounds in a positive context. Associating different sounds with enjoyable experiences can improve a dog's ability to tolerate these sounds without fear. 

By following these expert tips, you can help ensure a stress-free and enjoyable Halloween for both you and your furry friends. 

Agria is one of the world’s leading pet insurers. Agria Petinsure was established in Ireland in 2023 and is now a prominent feature of the Irish pet insurance industry, providing insurance for cats and dogs. Our mission is to provide the best care for pets and peace of mind for their owners by providing insurance solutions.