OCTOBER 2007 ISSUE
Autumn has finally arrived; the air is changing and the
leaves are turning and falling. With holidays soon upon us, this is a good time
(before the rush) to note our pets’ needs in the coming months.
With cold, wet days approaching, remember to note how the
weather affects your pet’s joints. There are many natural products available to
ease discomfort.
If you are adding Antifreeze to your car, be sure
never to leave an open container or spilled contents exposed. The sweet smell
and taste is highly attractive to dogs, cats and small children.
We can do creative styling for Halloween. Please call in
advance for holiday styling.
If you plan to include your dog in Halloween festivities,
following are some tips on keeping everyone safe and happy:
v Keep all
your pets indoors or with you. Unfortunately, it is true that cats need extra
protection and should be kept inside during the days leading up to and on the
holiday.
v
Remember to keep Halloween candy out of the reach of your pets.
v
Be sure to protect lit candles and
jack-o-lanterns from curious cats and dogs with swinging tails!
v
There tends to be an increase in dog bites over Halloween. If
your pet is alarmed or frightened by strangers in costumes knocking at your
door, keep your pet in another room where he can feel safe. If a crate is where
your pet feels safest, be sure it is available for his refuge
v
If your dog isn’t going to participate in
‘Trick or Treating’, take him for his evening walk well before dark to avoid
unexpected confrontations with people in scary costumes.
v
If you plan to take your dog, keep in mind that it’s best to include
only dogs that are mature, well socialized, and used to being on a secure and
short leash before going ‘Trick or Treating’.
v
Will your dog be in costume? If so, find one
that’s comfortable, allows her to move freely and easily, and doesn’t restrict
breathing, hearing or vision. Be certain that there are no belts or straps that
might irritate sensitive skin. Also, can your pet bark, squat or easily lift a
leg?
v
Prepare your pet well in advance to adjust to the costume. A week or so
prior to the 31st, try ‘treat training’ (no pun intended!). First,
drape the costume loosely on his back and offer a treat. Do this daily,
increasing the time from a few seconds to a few minutes. Be sure to reward with
treats and lavish praise each time your pet ‘wears’ his costume.
v
Never use hot glue guns on your pet.
v
Try a dress rehearsal. This should be a happy night for children and
pets. Be sure that taking a dog along on a leash is easily managed by your
child and won’t hinder his or her own navigation. After all, they too have a
costume, possibly a mask, and a bag to carry!
v
Like children, pets should have reflectors
attached or sport bright colors.
v
Carry dog treats (or baby carrots) with you and discourage anyone from
offering candy to your pet.
v
Don’t force it. A colorful or decorated collar
and leash is a good alternative if your pet is afraid or just doesn’t want to
be outfitted. Whether or not in costume, or on a leash, be sure he has his ID
and tags in case of separation.
v
When you’ve returned home and removed costumes,
brush your dog and check for any chafing or sores.
v
Remember, if there is any question that it is stressful for your
dog to go out, leave her at home, where she can enjoy the festivities, safe and
secure in her comfort zone.
Holiday
Appointments are quickly filling! To be sure we can schedule your pet grooming
in November and December, please call now to book an appointment!
FEATHERLE PET
703-430-0414; featherlepetcaresterling@verizon.net
703-221-3647; canineclipperschool@verizon.net