Ten ways to help your dog survive Halloween this year

Tonight it’s all costumes, sweets and somebody inevitably crying because their witch hat blew off. But while Halloween is pure chaos-and-fun for most of the family, there’s one member of the household who absolutely does not share the excitement — and that’s the dog.

New research published by Dogs Trust Ireland this month found that 48% of dogs in Ireland struggle to stay calm when fireworks can be heard. Nearly half. Which, if you’ve ever watched your otherwise bold terrier melt into a shivering puddle under the stairs at the first bang, makes complete sense.

This Halloween, Irish snack brand Manhattan has teamed up with Dogs Trust Ireland to raise awareness of pet safety during the festivities, while also supporting the charity’s work through a special limited-edition bundle — with €10 from every sale going directly to Dogs Trust Ireland.

Sophie O’Neill, Director of Manhattan, said: “At Manhattan, we’re a family business, and we know just how much our four-legged friends mean to Irish families. Halloween is such an exciting time for children and adults alike, but it’s easy to forget how frightening all the noise and excitement can be for our pets. We’re absolutely delighted to partner with Dogs Trust Ireland and support the wonderful work they do.”

If your dog tends to find Halloween stressful, a little preparation ahead of time can make a real difference. Here are ten tips worth keeping in mind.

Ten tips to help your dog through Halloween

• Walkies before the witching hour. Get the walk done well before darkness falls and things start to bang. Keep your dog on a lead even if they’re normally reliable off it — a spooked dog can bolt in seconds.

• Create a cosy hideaway. Set up a quiet, comfortable spot with their bed, favourite blanket and a few toys. Let them settle where they feel safest and never drag them out if they’ve gone to hide.

• Close the curtains. Shut windows and curtains to muffle the sound and flash of fireworks. Put on the telly or some calm background music to help drown out the worst of it.

• Treats for humans, doggy treats for dogs. Halloween sweets and chocolate must stay well out of paws’ reach. Chocolate, raisins and anything containing xylitol can be seriously dangerous for dogs.

• Watch the front door. With trick-or-treaters coming and going all evening, a frightened dog can slip out in seconds. Keep them away from the hall and double-check that gates and fences are secure.

• Skip the fancy dress. Your dog doesn’t need a costume. Honestly, they don’t want one either. Outfits can restrict movement, cause discomfort and make an already anxious dog more stressed.

• Be their safe place. If your dog is frightened, try not to leave them alone. Stay nearby, offer gentle comfort if they seek it and never punish them for being scared.

• Check their microchip details. Make sure registration details are up to date and that they’re wearing a collar with an ID tag. Frightened dogs can bolt unexpectedly and you want to make sure they can be returned quickly if the worst happens.

• Watch out for decorations. Candles, electrical cables, small decorations and sweet wrappers should all be kept out of reach. Curious dogs and flickering flames are not a great combination.

• Know when they need extra help. Watch for signs of real distress — shaking, excessive panting, hiding, pacing or whining. If your dog suffers badly with fireworks anxiety, it’s worth talking to your vet about support options.

A little box with a big heart

If you want to do something lovely for dogs in need while also treating yourself (fully valid), Manhattan has launched a Limited Edition Dogs Trust Ireland Manhattan Bundle priced at €24.99. It’s packed with a selection of Manhattan’s popcorn, crisps and savoury snacks, along with Dogs Trust and Manhattan merchandise, all presented in an exclusive gift box. And with €10 from every sale going straight to Dogs Trust Ireland, it’s a pretty feel-good snack purchase.

The bundle is available now at manhattan.ie. For more about the incredible work Dogs Trust Ireland does, visit dogstrust.ie.

In the meantime, maybe give the dog an extra cuddle tonight. They’ve earned it.