Halloween is just around the corner and that means one thing…candy. People love candy, especially kids. However, your furry little kid can not have candy. It is simply not good for them and can be quite toxic, especially chocolate. Pets are curious and will often times eat whatever is within immediate reach for them. Since most people will either be giving out candy or receiving it, it is important to think about your pets when it comes to where you have your candy stash hidden. Be sure to store candy in sealed containers, inside of closed pantries or cupboards, or somewhere up high that is out of Fido’s reach.

It’s always safest to leave your pets at home. However, if you plan to take your pet trick-or-treating with the rest of the family, remember to keep him safe, as well. Bring along water and a bowl to keep your pet hydrated. Walking makes you thirsty, and the same is true for your pet.

Pet costumes are adorable and quite fun. However, costumes should not be too tight around your pet’s head, neck, chest, or legs. Also, your pet’s costume should not block or inhibit their vision or hamper their ability to breathe. Remember that costumes can be quite warm, so if you see your pet excessively panting, it’s a good idea to remove the costume, make sure your pet gets rehydrated, and can take a break before continuing on.

Another good idea is to have your pet on a leash to protect him from cars and other hazards. You never know when the excitement of the night may cause him to want to run. Seeing lots of people and hearing all of the noises of the night just may be sensory overload for even the best behaved animals.

Lastly, on a night that is filled with tricks as well as treats, it’s best to bring your pet inside to keep him safe from devilish pranksters who may not have the best of intentions toward animals.

From all of us at Celebration Veterinary Hospital, we wish you, your family, and your pets a safe and Happy Halloween!

Owning a pet is so rewarding, the love and affection a pet can give makes a world of difference in your life. If you have been thinking about getting a new pet one option to consider is adoption from your local pet shelter or SPCA. When you adopt these animals you not only gain a friend, but you give the animal another shot at happiness too.

A little puppy or kitten are great because you can watch them grow, animal shelters not only have older animals, but they have babies as well. Baby animals require a lot of patients and care as they go through the process of growing pains. An older animal may already be trained and easier to take care of if you have a busy schedule.

Most shelters will provide vaccinations, spaying or neutering as well as deworming for a newly adopted pet.

There are even fostering programs available for you to temporarily take in an animal if you aren’t ready for the responsibility of full-time ownership. This process also helps the shelters when they become overcrowded. And the option of adopting the pet you’re taking care of there is no problem there either.

Following are a list of shelters for you to consider.

http://www.ohs-spca.org/index.htm

http://www.orangecountyfl.net/animalspets/adoptapet.aspx

Animals are great companions. They come in all shapes, sizes and varieties. For an owner, the care for an exotic pet is the most difficult because you must know how to properly care for the animal.

Not every vet is capable of treating an exotic species. What many people may not know is that even domestic animals such as rabbits are be considered exotic.

These animals’ needs can be pretty intense, whether they are dietary or just functional. Before you buy an exotic animal you should do some research on the type of pet that you are interested in purchasing.

This research will allow you to understand what owning the pet will mean for you. Some great places to find advice on exotic and wild animals is from the Florida Animal Control, http://floridaanimalcontrol.org/home-exotics

Some pets even require a state licence. To check if the animal you are interested in purchasing requires a licence click here, http://www.bornfreeusa.org/b4a2_exotic_animals_summary.php.

Remember that the pet you choose for a companion can be a great purchase, but if you aren’t prepared to care for the animal, neither of you will enjoy the experience.

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