Halloween Candy Safety For Pets Header

Halloween Candy Safety For Pets

Halloween Candy Safety For Pets Header

 

What’s one of the first things to come to mind when you think of Halloween? Chances are, you’re thinking “CANDY!!!”.  Sugary treats are a definite favorite during this spook-tacular season. But there are some Halloween dangers that can also play not-so-sweet tricks on your pet’s health. Be sure to keep Fido and Fluffy away from the following items in your kid’s candy bag:

Bite-sized Hard Candy

Pile of chocolate

Pile of chocolate by Daniela Simona Temneanu from NounProject.com

These sweet treats can pose a major choking hazard for your precious pet. Hard candy becomes slick when mixed with saliva, making it easy to be inhaled into the windpipe. Keep these tempting treats away from Fido and Fluffy!

Candy with Wrappers

When pets get their paws on Halloween candy, they gobble them down, wrapper and all. Plastic and foil wrappers, when ingested, can cause an obstruction in the intestines and irritate the lining of the GI tract. Sometimes they can be passed without any issue, but it’s best to keep all wrapped treats away from your candy craving cat or canine.

Chocolate Covered Raisins

These tasty treats may be a favorite amongst pet parents and their kids, but they combine two potentially deadly ingredients for dogs. When ingested, chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea and seizures, while raisins can trigger kidney failure. If your dog gets his paws on this delicious yet dangerous treat, take him to your veterinarian immediately!

Candy Corn and Other High Sugar Candies

Sugar may have you and your kids climbing the walls, but it will only bring your pet down, causing painful and severe gas. What’s worse is that the sugar provides an excellent source of food for bad gut bacteria to dine on. This can pull water into the colon, causing an extra-messy case of diarrhea for Fluffy or Fido.

Sugar-free Candy and Gum

Most sugar-free Halloween candy these days contain a sugar-substitute called Xylitol, also may be labeled as Birch Sugar. While safe for people, Xylitol can be deadly if ingested by your canine companion. It causes a severe drop in blood sugar within minutes after ingestion, making dogs lethargic, unable to walk, and may cause seizure activity. If your dog survives the initial symptoms, often the dog will be left with severe liver damage and potentially fatal liver failure, making this the most dangerous type of Halloween “treat” for dogs.

Pet Poison Helpline - 855-764-7661

Pet Poison Helpline Number: (855) 764-7661 *$65 incident fee applies

Calls to the veterinarians at the Pet Poison Helpline increase by 12 percent during the week of Halloween, making it the call center’s busiest time of year. If you suspect your pet has ingested something poisonous, call your veterinarian or the Helpline (1-(855)-764-7661) sooner rather than later. It is easier, less expensive, and safer for your pet to be treated earlier. When he’s showing severe symptoms of distress or poisoning from Halloween candy treatment can be costly and more risky.

 

Halloween Candy Safety

Best Halloween Costumes for Your Dog

 

Fall is here and Halloween decorations are starting to pop up everywhere. It’s time to start thinking about your costumes. And why should we have all the fun? Why not get your dog in on the spooky holiday with a costume of their own! Here are the top Halloween costumes for your dog this October 31st.

 


Minion

Halloween Costume

Image from Amazon

You can never go wrong with an adorable Minion costume.


Beanie Baby

Halloween Costume

Image from You Bet Your Pierogis

 

Transform your dog into a real-life version of the crazy 90’s trend, the Beanie Baby. The best part is that this Halloween costume is easy and inexpensive! Learn out to create it in this tutorial from You Bet Your Pierogi.


Super Dog

 

Halloween Costume

Image from Amazon

Create your own crime-fighting canine with this adorable super dog costume!


Punk Rock Pup

Halloween Costume

Image from Woman’s Day

Recreate the look with a Doggy Faux-Mohawk and a studded collar. Your pup will go from pup to punk in no time.


 

Lion Dog

Image from Amazon

 

We love Halloween and the chance to dress up as our favorite characters for the night. Just remember to keep your pet’s safety in mind first and you’re sure to have a great night!

What is your favorite costume that you’ve ever seen or done with your dog? We’d love to hear all about it in the comments below or on our Facebook page.


Related Blogs:

Top 3 Halloween Costume Safety Tips For Your Pets

Halloween Dangers for Pets

5 Halloween Costumes That Include Your Dog

Responsible Dog Ownership Day

 

Did you know that September 19th is Responsible Dog Ownership Day? And there’s never a bad time to brush up on some dog ownership basics. Here a few tips to brush up on to make sure our canine companions are taken care of as best as possible.dog ownership

Healthy Eating Habits

The first step in establishing healthy eating habits for your dog is to talk with your vet. They will help you decide what type and how much food is right for your dog. Depending on breed, weight, age, and activity levels the amount your vet can help you make sure your dog is getting all the right nutrition.

  • Feed them at the same time every day. Don’t let them graze all day long.
  • Avoid overfeeding to keep them at a healthy weight. This includes treats too!
  • Always have easy access to clean water
  • Clean their food and water bowls often to prevent mold and bacteria from building up.
  • Don’t feed them table scraps. It’s can be hard, but they usually end up with an upset stomach from eating “people food.”

Hygiene & Medical Care Counts

Keeping your dog healthy and happy starts at home. Don’t wait until they get sick to take them to the vet. Schedule yearly check-ups to make sure that they stay on the right track. Preventing sickness is far easier than trying to cure it.

  • Schedule yearly visits with the vet.
  • Keep up with their vaccinations
  • Give them regular flea and heartworm treatments
  • Make sure their teeth and gums stay clean with dental chews and regular brushing.
  • Keep a canine first aid kit on hand
  • Don’t forget to spay and neuter your pet

 

Give Them a Safe Home

Dog ownership means giving your dog a place to call home. They need enough space to move around comfortably and safely.  Even if they are an “outside” dog, they need access to a shelter to protect them from the elements.

  • Give them their own blanket, bed or crate. If you’re using a crate make sure they have enough room to stand up, sit, turn around and die down in.
  • Dog-proof the area. Remove chemicals like antifreeze, toxic plants, cords, and garbage cans from places your dog will frequently be.
  • Make sure the climate is appropriate, especially if they are outside.
  • Never leave them tied up in the yard while you’re away. They can easily get wrapped up and choke.

 

Keep Them Moving, Active and Engaged

Just like humans, dogs need exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy. A bored dog will often get in more trouble because they are looking for something to do. Plus, keeping them active prevents obesity and all of the complications that come from being overweight.

  • Walk them regularly.
  • Get them treat puzzles to keep them busy when you’re not home.
  • Play games like tug-o-war and fetch with them.
  • Don’t forget to cuddle with them and give lots of positive reinforcement.

 

Dog ownership is a very big and very rewarding responsibility. They look to us for their basic care and also for comfort and stability. That’s why it’s so important to make sure we’re always giving our dog’s all of our love and care.

 

Where are emergency vet clinics in the Fort Collins Area?

 

Unfortunately, accidents can and do happen. And when they do, you have to act fast. That’s why it’s imperative to have a quick go to list of emergency vet clinics. If you think your pet is acting strange or is very ill, they may need immediate attention. Here are a few for seeking immediate medical attention for you pet.

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Profound weakness or collapse
  • Seizures
  • Obvious signs of trauma
  • Protracted vomiting/diarrhea (especially if bloody)
  • Signs of pain or extreme restlessness and vocalization
  • Ingestion of a known toxin
  • Hindquarter paralysis
  • Abnormal urination

Our top choices for emergency vet clinics in the Fort Collins and Loveland area.

Fort Collins Veterinarian Emergency and Rehabilitation – Our favorite for the Fort Collins area

 


Aspen Grove Veterinarian Care

 


The Pet Wellness Clinic


VCA Veterinary Specialists of Colorado 


Four Season Veterinary Specialists  – Our favorite for the Loveland area


Colorado State – Veterinary Teaching Hospital


Always be prepared for an emergency

Being prepared in an emergency can help save your pet’s life. That’s why you need to make sure to always keep them on a leash when you’re outside. If you’re outside after dark use a reflective leash and take a flashlight. Moreover, take a minute to re-evaluate how “pet-proof” is your home. Remove toxic chemicals and plants from areas pets can reach. If they can’t get to them, they can’t ingest them.

Also, never leave them unattended for extended periods of time. Even the most relaxed pet can get into mischief if they are bored. Hire a pet sitter when you’re going out of town or on an extra-long day trip. We’d love to set you up with one of our awesome Wet Noses Pet Sitters to help ensure that your pet is safe. Just give us a call any time you need it!

September: Emergency Preparedness Month – Preparing with Pets

 

After seeing two extremely powerful hurricanes hit the U.S. and the raging wild fires in Oregon, it makes us all consider what we would do in a natural disaster. And it’s actually a perfect time to think about your plans since September is National Emergency Preparedness Month.

We should always be ready for whatever life throws at us, like hurricanes, droughts, fire, flood, landslides, tornadoes, terrorism, and more. There are a few things we can do that will make any disaster a little easier, especially when there are pets involved. 

Emergency Preparedness for Pets

  • Update and secure collars
  • Update microchips or have microchips implanted
  • Create a list of pet-friendly accommodations if you need to evacuate
  • Keep a recent picture of each pet
  • Make a list of emergency 24hr vets in your area
  • Have emergency food and supplies on hand
  • Have a carrier and leash for each pet
  • Coordinate with neighbors, family, friends and pet sitters in case you get stranded and your pet is home alone aloneEmergency Preparedness

Make an Emergency  Kit

It’s always important to have an emergency preparedness kit at home. Here are a few items you need to make sure to have on hand. If you’re going to be evacuated, you’ll need a 3 day supply of materials.  If you’re staying at home it’s best to plan for 2 weeks.

  • Water: One gallon, per person per day
  • Food: Stock up on at least a 3 day supply of non-perishable, easy to prepare food. Include plenty of pet food and a manual can opener. 
  • Flashlights and electric tea candles
  • First aid kit that includes pet supplies
  • Batteries, including backup batteries or chargers for phones
  • Battery powered or hand crank radio
  • Camping stove/battery powered hot plate to warm up food

There are so many things to worry about during an emergency. If you have some of your basic necessities covered, you’ll have that much more peace of mind. Plan for every member of your family, including your pets. Disasters happen fast and can hit hard. Having even the smallest plan in place will help you know how to navigate if it happens to you.

In case an emergency was to happen while a Wet Noses Pet Sitter was at your home we will do everything to keep your pet safe. We will coordinate with you and keep your pets safe until they can be reunited with you.

How to Keep Your Dog Busy When the Kids Go Back to School

 

It’s been a nice long summer of cuddles in the morning and playing in the afternoon. The home has been bustling with activity while the kids are out of school. And typically, most of our dogs love all of the extra attention they get during this time. That’s why it can be hard for them to adjust when it’s time for the kids to go back to school.

back to schoolGet them a few new toys dog

Help your dog get over the school day slump with new activities to keep them occupied.

  • Puzzle toys are great at keeping dog’s entertained. Not only do they challenge their brains for a reward, they also stay busy for a while as well. After playing with it, they feel satisfied from play and getting a treat
  • Dog chews will help save your shoes and furniture if your dog is really feeling the back to school blues. Often our dogs find themselves chewing when they are stressed or bored. Giving them new chews can help them ease their anxiety and boredom.
  • Tug Poles are a fun way to interact with your dog. They look similar to the familiar cat fishing pole toy, but a little tougher and more durable. Take some time each to hop it around and play with your dog to put back some fun in their day.
  • Ball launchers are also a great way to keep your dog busy when the kids go back to school. Whether it’s automatic or the chuck-it launcher, dogs love playing ball.

 

Tire them out with exercise

You won’t have to worry about your dog being bored if they are too pooped to play. Wear them out a good walk or a vigorous play session before you leave or have to start your chores. They’ll happily nap for a little while, then you can get your daily tasks completed without them begging for attention.

Turn on TV or Radio

It can get too quiet during the day, especially being used to a busy household. Help your dog through the quiet times by having the TV or radio play on low when you’re not at home. If you’re going to be gone a lot of the day, set a time so it cuts on or off as needed. They may not like it on all day, but a little ambient noise can go a long way.

Hire a dog walker

Another great way to keep your dog busy during the quiet days of the school season is by hiring a dog walker. They’ll come check on your pet, give them some TLC and a good walk. This will give them much needed attention and exercise, helping them settled down for a little while until you and the kids return home.

 

Changes in our routines and missing loved ones that are usually there can be stressful for our dogs. That’s why it good to put a little extra effort into keeping them busy during the transition. And don’t forget to call us for dog walking and pet sitting services! We’d love to help keep your dog company when the kids go back to school.

 

 

 

 

Top 5 Places for Dog Grooming in Fort Collins

 

Now that the weather is warming up, we’ve all been a little more focused on sprucing up for spring and summer. From the time at the gym to hair and nail appointments, it’s definitely the time of year to refresh grooming routines after the cold winter months. That should also be the same for your precious pets as well. It’s time to trim up those winter coats and pretty up those paws.

Need helping picking a dog groomer in Fort Collins? Check out our Top 5 places for grooming:


1.) Michi’s Grooming


2.) Animal House


3.) The Dog Pawlour


4.) Spa 5 paws


5.) Wagz Pet Market


How to Pick the Perfect Groomer:

If you’re new to getting your dog or cat groomed, don’t hesitate to give your local groomer a call. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and help put your mind to ease.

Here are some basic tips for making sure you’re picking the right groomer for you:

  • Visit the shop to make an appointment in person
  • Does the staff appear knowledgeable, caring, and gentle?
  • Is the facility well lit and clean?
  • Do the animals have enough room in their cages (they should be able to stand and turn around comfortably)
  • Are dogs and cats caged in separate areas?
  • Does the groomer keep complete pet records (including grooming, medical, vaccination and emergency contact information)?

Ask your friends and neighbors their experiences as well. You can never do too much research when it comes to someone handling your fur-baby. Don’t feel bad about asking questions or for a tour. A great groomer won’t hesitate to show you around and assuage any anxiety you or your pet feels about the process.

Do you have a favorite groomer in Fort Collins? Let us know your recommendations in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

Travel Safely With Your Pet

 

After the recent winter storm surge, you’re probably ready to get out of the house and into the sunshine. That means it’s a perfect time for a road trip. And one of the best parts of a good road trip is that the whole family can have fun, Fido included. Of course it takes a little extra planning to make sure they are safe, but it is worth it.  So, if you’re going to travel with your pet this summer take some of these safety tips along with you.

Get them ready for the trip

If your dog isn’t acclimated to car trips, it’s a good idea to slowly get them used to it. Take them out in the car either in the crate or harness.  Start with little trips at first, then gradually increase the length of the trip.  This gets them used to their carrier and the car ride as well.  

Keep them safe in the car

Make sure that they have their own proper secure spot.  There are a few options you can choose from when it comes to car seat safety.  You can put them in a well ventilated crate or carrier if they get anxious or car sick, or just like to feel safely confined.  They need to have enough room to turn around and stand up in, plus it needs to be secured with a seat belt or strap. You can also use a harness and belt them in the back seat.  We like to put our dog on little booster bed with a harness that is belted into the seat.  This way he can be part of the action, but is still safe.

Pack a travel kit

Create a kit that  includes their papers (especially if you’re going over state lines), extra food, water, a travel bowl or two, grooming supplies, medicine, and waste supplies. Pack their favorite toy and blanket as well to give them a sense of home.

Update ID’s and/or microchips

Any time your pet is going out and about. It’s also a good idea to pack a spare collar with ID’s just in case they lose it while romping around outside of the car.  Take a recent pick of them and save it on your phone just in case.

Never leave them alone in a car

No matter how long or if the windows are open, don’t leave them alone.  It only takes a few minutes for a car to reach scorching temps which could cause heat stroke. Do not let them ride with their head out of the window, it may seem fun and carefree, but it could turn deadly if they get hit from debris on that can fly up off the road.

 

There is nothing quite like a road trip with your favorite four-legged family member, keeping their safety and comfort in mind will make sure everyone has a great time while traveling.

Looking for a great road trip this summer? Check out these 10 Unforgettable Road Trips in Colorado!

Summer Activities With Your Dog

 

Guest writer Sidehill Pet Sitter Alyssa

Summer Activities With summer just around the corner, everyone is pulling at the leash to get outside and enjoy the sunshine and warm weather. And fortunately for all you dog lovers, Fort Collins offers no shortage of activities to enjoy the dog days of summer with man’s best friend. So, here are some dog friendly summer activities to have a dog gone good time with your pet in Fort Collins this summer.

The Poudre Trail is a Fort Collins favorite.

This 21-mile paved nature trail is not just for cyclists, so get out there and take your dog for a walk along this scenic route. The peaceful sound of running water and the fresh smell of wildflowers and trees is sure to invigorate the senses of you and your pet. This trail meanders by some of the best breweries in Northern Colorado, so you can refresh yourself after your walk with a cold beverage. Enjoy the outdoor seating and the company of your pet.

Shops and restaurants

Breweries aren’t the only place where your dog can join you. Fort Collins is so dog-friendly, that some shops welcome both you and your furry friend. Enjoy a day of retail therapy with your dog! Stop by Wagz, an awesome pet supply and food store smack dab in the middle of historic Old Town, or eat at one of the many delicious restaurants that have an outdoor patio so your pet can join you. With so many scrumptious choices, you do not have to keep your appetite on a short leash.

Hiking

Arguably one of the best outdoor activities to do with your dog in Fort Collins is hiking. Horsetooth, Lori State Park, the Poudre Canyon, Devil’s Backbone… The possibilities are endless. Get in a lot of exercise, soak up some sun, and enjoy the great outdoors. At the end of the day, both you and your pet are sure to be dog-tired.

See other hiking trails in the Fort Collins and Loveland areas.

Horsetooth Reservoir

You can also spend the day at every Fort Collinsian’s favorite body of water: Horsetooth Reservoir. Lay out in the sun or dip your feet in the crisp waters, just don’t forget to take your dog, or you’ll be in the doghouse!

Dog parks

This summer, don’t make your dogs stay at home and play dead. Take them out to one of the many dog parks that Fort Collins offers. The ones on Lake Street, Horsetooth Road, or Fossil Creek are a few of my girl’s favorites. This is a great way to meet other dog fanatics. It also keeps your dogs occupied so they don’t get bored at home and start barking up the wrong tree.

Learn about the local dogs parks in Fort Collins and Loveland.

Fort Collins is the perfect town for people who love the outdoors and dogs. Be sure to take advantage of some great summer activities and enjoy the city, sun, and companionship of man’s best friend.


Important Items to Bring When Hiking with Your Dog

I don’t know about you, but disconnecting from the world and getting out into nature is one of my favorite things. However much fun it can be, it does have the potential to be dangerous if you’re not prepared. This is even more true if you decided to bring your canine companion with you. Luckily, with a few important items hiking with your dog can be one of the best ways to spend the day.

 

Doggy Backpack

Image result for dog backpack

Hiking with your dog does mean extra supplies, so make them carry their own backpack with an extra leash and other supplies. Make sure not to overload it, the general rule is for the pack to weigh one pound to every 20 lbs of pup.

Collapsible Food and Water Bowls

Image from Amazon

A perfect item for you dog’s backpack is a collapsible bowl set for their food and water. This way no matter where on the trail you are, both of you can take a break for hydration and trail mix.

Paw Protecting Dog Booties

Image from Amazon

If you’re navigating particularly rocky terrain or if your dog is somewhat new to being outside on rough ground you may want to pack a pair of these puppy paw protecting boots. These are also perfect for hot pavement or sand.

 

Heavy Duty Waste Bags

Image from Amazon

The rule of the trail is what you pack in, you pack out. This is the same for waste unless your on a trail that allows you to scoop and bury someone off the main path. Either way packing heavy duty scent eliminating bags is essential. You may also want to bring a compact bag dispenser for them as well.

 

Me & My Dog Medical Kit

Image from Amazon

Bring a first aid kit is a hiking must, but having one made for both you and your dog is helpful and saves space of bringing extra doggy necessities on top of your own first aid kit.

 

Other things to consider

  • Make sure your dog is trained well enough to obey commands while hiking
  • Bring bug spray and sunscreen for both of you (baby/kid friendly products work well for dogs)
  • Update ID’s and/or microchip and bring an extra set of tags if you can
  • Snap a picture of your dog before you head out
  • Make sure their shots are up to date

 

Hiking is blast. But it is more than just fun in the woods, being prepared is key to a successful trip.

What trails do you like to take with your dog? Let us know your favorite trails and hiking with your dog tips!