Halloween Fun For Everyone

October 16, 2009 - Masks, decorations, and candy are the makings of a happy Halloween for humans, but these traditional holiday customs can sometimes generate stress and danger for your cat or dog! Have a happy Halloween by following these tips!

• Keep Your Pet in a Quiet Place:  Pets can become frightened or agitated by the sights and sounds of costumed visitors. Frequently opened doors also make a great escape route for those already distressed.  Make sure all pets are wearing collars and ID tags in case of escape.  Bring all pets inside and keep them in a separate room during trick-or-treat visiting hours.
• Trick or Treat Candies Are Not for Pets:  Chocolate is poisonous to a lot of animals. Even the wrappers can be dangerous!  Keep all candies away from your pet and treat your dog or cat to a pet friendly Halloween snack (see recipes).
• Pet Costumes Can Be Stressful:  If you choose to dress your pet in a costume, keep in mind that you could be causing her discomfort and stress.  Try them on in advance and see how your pet reacts.  Make sure the costume is not constricting, annoying or unsafe.
• Leave Your Pets at Home:  Adults may have more responsibility than they bargained for if they take their pet trick-or-treating with the kids. Pets may become spooked by the strange sights and sounds and try to make a hasty get away.
• Decorate with Your Pet in Mind: Keep decorations , like streamers, fake spider webs, jack-o-lanterns, wires and cords for electrical decorations, out of reach to avoid an unnecessary trip to the vet.

The SHS Wishes you and your pet a very happy and safe Halloween!

Pet Friendly Treats

Gobble-ups cat treats

Ingredients

• 1 cup turkey or chicken
• 1/2 cup cooked turkey or chicken
• 1 tablespoon margarine
• 1 cup whole wheat flour

Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine turkey, broth, and margarine. Add flour to make a soft dough.  Add additional flour, 1 tablespoon at a time if dough is too sticky.  Roll out dough and cut with cookie cutter, or break off pieces and form into interesting shapes.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes on ungreased cookie sheets. Makes about 30 treats. Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Bark 'O Lantern dog treats

Ingredients

• 1 cup oat flour
• 1 cup brown rice flour
• 1 cup pumpkin (canned or fresh)
• 2 Tablespoons molasses (regular or black strap)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 egg

Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients together and mix until a dough forms. Roll out on a lightly floured surface to 1/4" thickness. Use a pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter (or knife) to cut into shapes. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes on ungreased cookie sheets. Makes about 30 treats. Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.