Is your animal companion in their golden years? Pets are cute at any age, but they get especially adorable as they grow older. You’ll also need to make some changes to your pet’s care regimen as they age. In some ways, senior pets are simpler to care for than younger ones. They aren’t as feisty or rambunctious, and have outgrown many bad habits, like chewing and digging. However, they require further attention in other areas. You should also use caution with aged pets during this time of year. In this article, a local Guelph, ON veterinarian shares some tips for spending Halloween with your beloved retiree.
Don’t Give Pets Candy
Many households have an abundance of candy throughout the autumn season. There’s the pre-Halloween stash, the post-Halloween stash, and finally the last-minute discounts. Many popular Halloween treats 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 be choking hazards. Anything heavy in fat or sugar is likewise not a suitable option for an elderly dog … or any dog, for that matter. Choose healthful treats for your animal buddy. Your veterinarian can propose suitable alternatives. (Tip: plain, cooked meat, fish, or chicken, without the skin, bones, or fat, is a good bet.)
Be Cautious With Flames
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 in high and secure spots, out of reach of your pets’ cute paws.
Limit Pets’ Outdoor Time
We always advocate keeping cats inside. This goes double for elderly kitties. Fluffy will not only be weaker and slower than her younger counterparts, but she may also be able to see and hear less 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 return home.
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.
Keeping dogs indoors will not be an option. Fido, of course, needs to go outside to relieve himself and get some exercise. Just take some extra care. To make it easier for people to see your canine companion after dark, consider getting a light, reflective, or even an LED leash and harness. Always keep your dog on a leash. With an older dog, your pooch may be less likely to chase a squirrel, but more likely to trip or stumble into the road.
If you have a yard for your pup to play in, that is a little safer. However, we still advocate keeping Fido indoors as much as possible during the autumn holidays and after nightfall.
Do Not Go Overboard With Costumes
Halloween, Friendsgiving, football … Many people’s social calendars are starting to fill up. We understand how charming it might be to see an older dog dressed up. Fido has worn some really gorgeous costumes throughout the years! He has played a variety of roles, including Viking, pirate, spaghetti, cheeseburger, mailman, bumblebee, and walrus. As the holidays approach, Fido may also find himself in a Santa suit or sporting reindeer antlers.
At this point in your pet’s life, comfort should always come first. If you want to put something on your pet, be sure it’s comfortable for him. It should not be too hot, too tight, too loose, or too difficult for your pet to see or move in. Dogs’ 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
People’s social calendars are filling up with events like Halloween, Friendsgiving, and football. Costumes and celebrations can be a lot of fun, but they can also be very scary for pets. 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, take a few precautions to keep your senior pet comfortable. You may wish to create a quiet rear area for Fido and Fluffy. 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 within.
If your pet becomes anxious or agitated when the doorbell rings, consult your Guelph, ON veterinarian for advice on utilizing pet-calming remedies. There are numerous choices available, including collars, treats, and sprays.
Have Fun With Toys
Pet product manufacturers have gone far beyond the traditional catnip mouse. You can now get 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. As Thanksgiving approaches, you might opt for more harvest-themed decor or simply keep the Halloween spirit alive!
Provide All Necessary Comforts
At this time of year, the weather will begin to cool down. 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 providing 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 diarrhea and constipation. Many pets would benefit from having some added to their chow. Apples are also harmless, as long as you remove seeds and pips. Sweet potatoes are another safe choice. Fido and Fluffy can also have cooked, boneless chicken or turkey meat, or some sodium-free broth. Ask your veterinarian for particular guidance on this. Keep in mind that older pets often have a hard time with greasy or fatty foods.
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.
Get Some Great Photos
This is also an ideal time of year to take portraits. Take some cute photos of your four-legged retiree! Schedule your shots for twilight or dawn to capture the most natural light. That’s when the light has a natural, golden hue.
Book An Appointment At Our Guelph, ON 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 Guelph, ON animal clinic, we are committed to providing excellent treatment.
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