Kiddipedia
Halloween, though not a traditional Australian celebration, over the past decade has become increasingly popular with families across the nation getting into festivities.
With the spookiest date in the Australian calendar on the horizon, research shows on average a quarter of Australians (26%) celebrate Halloween1, with numbers rising year-on-year.
The rise of the fur baby is seeing pets being pampered more than ever before, with Animal Medicines Australia’s most recent report revealing 36% of pet owners purchase gifts for their four-legged friends on special occasions such as Halloween and Christmas.2
For owners looking to spoil their pet and include them in trick-or-treating this Halloween, here’s a list of top products from PETstock:
Treats for dogs that prefer not to trick
Handmade by Australian pastry chefs with wholesome, quality ingredients, Doggy Donuts by Pooch Treats bakery will ensure no dog misses out on treating this Halloween. Although they look just as good as human food, the donuts are made from 100% dog safe ingredients and are the perfect treats to use as a reward for training or to show them a little bit of love.
For dogs that can’t get enough of festive holidays, spoil them with Pooch Treat’s Doggy Puddings this Halloween! The puddings will be available in all PETstock stores until Christmas, making this fan favourite a welcomed addition to your dog’s Christmas stocking in December (that’s only if they’ve been good of course!).
PETstock’s spooky picks: Doggy Donuts RRP: $2.99, XM19 PT
Doggy Puddings 9pc RRP: $9.95
Pet Halloween safety tips by PETstock VET Dr Sasha Nefedova:
- Sweets and chocolate are strictly for human trick-or-treaters and can be toxic to pets. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your pet has raided the candy bowl meant for humans.
- For some pets, wearing a Halloween themed costume may cause undue stress. Always ensure outfits do not limit their movement, sight or airways. Remove accessories that could present a choking hazard and ensure the outfit is worn for short periods only under strict supervision. If your pet shows signs of stress or abnormal behaviour remove immediately.
- Keep edible decorations like candy, tinsel, lit candles or pumpkin lights out of reach to avoid food toxicity, fire hazards or electric shock.
- Create a safe environment for your pet to have some alone time away from trick-or-treaters knocking on the door throughout the day or night.
- Ensure your pet’s microchip details are up to date to ensure their safe return in case they get spooked by strangers and run away.
- McCrindle Research: Halloween growing in Australia Research Study 2011
- Animal Medicines Australia: Pets in Australia Report 2019
Toys to keep your buddies busy
If you’re looking for something to keep your pooch busy when the spooky trick-or-treaters come knocking, the Lexi & Me Rubber Toy Treat Ball will provide the perfect distraction. Featuring a hollow centre that allows pet parents to stuff with snacks or other small treats, the enriching ball encourages active play and provides dogs with good mental stimulation.
After being spoiled with (some) Halloween treats, The NERF Spike Ball will work to keep your dog’s teeth squeaky clean and maintain gum health. Molded with durable thermoplastic rubber, the toy can withstand extended, tough chewing. If you’re a savvy pet parent that prefers to combine tricks and treats, add some of your dog’s favourite sticky food to the toy such as peanut butter for further enticement.
PETstock’s spooky picks: Lexi & Me Rubber Toy Green Treat Ball RRP: $8.99, NERF 3.5in TPR
Spike Ball RRP: $17.99
Spook-tactular bedding
When the festive day is done but your pooch wants to keep with the Halloween theme, they can relax on the orange Petlife Self Warming Throw Mat. Made from a special material that traps and reflects your dog’s body temperature, you can rest easy knowing they will be warm throughout the night.
The non-slip base, fleece cover and soft filling will provide your dog with added comfort and protection from hard flooring, making it a practical yet festive addition to any dog-loving household.
PETstock’s spooky pick: Petlife – Self Warming – Throw Mat Dog Bed RRP: $99.99
