Janet Jones | Special to the Fitzhugh
The mountains have a cap of snow, the geese are flying south and there is ice on the edge of the ponds. All sure signs that winter is on its way.
But before we get into the depths of a new season we have the fun of Halloween: costumes, candy and parties - all great for us but potential hazards for our pets.
I am going to run down a few things to think about on and around Halloween.
First, consider how your dog or cat will view the appearance of strange and perhaps scary beings that crowd your door repeatedly, shouting, “Trick or treat.”
For many pets, this will be a frightening experience and they may be traumatized, become aggressive or bolt out the door.
Many years ago a small dog ran out the door in fear one cold Halloween night and spent a week in sub-zero temperatures up by Pyramid Lake before she was finally caught. She was so frightened that even her owners couldn't get her and she needed to be live trapped.
She was lucky to survive the cold, let alone the predators.
Indoor cats that sneak by while you are distracted with ghosts and goblins are at even greater risk.
Another consideration is the children themselves, as some may be afraid of dogs no matter how friendly.
So it is much better to keep animals securely away from the door and close them in a room with a long lasting treat until the onslaught has passed.
Similarly, if you are taking your kids out to go trick-or-treating and are considering bringing your dog, first think about his or her personality.
If they are nervous of strangers or anxious in general then they will be even more afraid when everyone is dressed up and rushing about being loud and excited.
Such an experience can reinforce a dogs fears and increase anxiety even after the night has passed. Often it is better to leave your dog at home so everyone can enjoy the night.
Just as an aside, this holds true for almost every dog and fireworks.
Unless you know for sure that your dog doesn't mind them then leave them at home as even the bravest of dogs will be overwhelmed by the noise and light. I must admit that I find them disconcerting myself - and I know what is going on.
We have lost several dogs over the years and a few were never found. Just because we find something fun doesn't mean our pets will.
Last but not least is the candy.
Most people are aware that chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats but they often will underestimate the lengths dogs in particular will go to in order to get it.
Certainly wrapping (even if it is Christmas paper) including the box is no barrier and sometimes even closets or cupboards are not enough.
Dogs especially seem to love chocolate and will seek it out and eat more then you will think possible.
I recently saw a chihuahua that had eaten a chocolate bar that was as big as his body. I still don't know how he did it but he proved it by throwing up massive amounts of chocolate after we induced vomiting.
Though it is unusual, I have also seen cats that have eaten chocolate.
Chocolate has variable toxicity depending on the type (the darker the more toxic), the amount eaten compared to the size of the animal and the individual susceptibility of the pet. It can range from vomiting and diarrhea to cardiac effects, seizures and death.
So keep it hidden well away and as children may not understand what safely stored means, it is important to check that it is locked away. I have heard of dogs getting things off the top of the fridge so be careful.
If your pet does ingest chocolate then call your vet immediately as prompt vomiting will greatly reduce any risk of toxicity.
Enjoy Halloween and remember to consider the safety and emotional wellbeing of our pets as well. Happy fall!
Dr Janet Jones DVM is the owner of the Jasper Veterinary Clinic, a full service clinic with a satellite clinic in Valemount, British Columbia. Call 780-852-5551.
