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HERE COMES HALLOWEEN
I have a particular affinity for black cats. One of my cats at home, my aged Jezebel, is black, as are Messrs. Fish and Chips, who live at the shop. There was a time when such a close relationship with multiple black cats would have gotten me into serious trouble, because black cats and those associated with them, were highly suspect.
For centuries in Europe, pagan beliefs, often associated with witchcraft, were the dominant form of religion. When Christianity came to the forefront, any form of witchcraft was evil and wrong, and the cat, often considered a witch "familiar," became evil as a result of that association.
When they arrived in this country, the Pilgrims were a devout lot, but they brought many suspicions and fears, particularly if they thought something smacked of the devil. Unfortunately, black cats were viewed as evil incarnate and many were killed, oftentimes along with those accused of witchcraft. If a farmer believed his land had a spell cast upon it, he could break this spell by shooting a black cat with a silver bullet. Even today, there are those who believe it is bad luck if a black cat crosses their path.
On Halloween, celebrated for centuries as the magical night of the year when the underworld opens up so that its spirits can make contact with those of us in the real world, the black cat was often considered to be the catalyst for that exchange. Today, we might not be aware of that association as we prepare to dress up and go trick-or-treating, but this history helps explain why Halloween decorations today feature black cats, along with the witches, skeletons and other scary symbols that typify this event.
In spite of its often lurid and cruel history, Halloween has become a retail success story. Second only to Christmas, Halloween is the biggest shopping day for retailers and the second biggest decorating holiday. Additionally, Halloween is the third largest party occasion, trailing New Year's and the Super Bowl. Two-thirds of all grownups celebrate Halloween and half of them will spend more than $100 in the process - 28 million Halloween cards will be exchanged.
Regardless of how you and your family plan to celebrate this occasion, keep in mind that the events of the night can be a source of stress for your pet. It's true, there are many adorable pet costumes out there, and certainly, if your pet enjoys being dressed up, give a costume a try. Allow plenty of time for your pet to become accustomed to the new duds and don't force the issue. The costume shouldn't constrict movement, his ability to hear, see, breathe or bark. Make sure there are no dangling pieces your pet can chew or choke on. If your pet hates wearing a costume, you can try again later with small exposures, high praise and treats. If you continue to meet with resistance, it might be best to give up on the idea altogether.
Taking your dog along for trick-or-treating seems like one of those good ideas, but it really is a tough call. Some pets can handle the commotion with aplomb, but a negative reaction to the wildness and excitement could end up with a lost or frightened pet. Use caution unless you know your pet is extremely gregarious and unflappable.
The safest plan is to keep your pets inside, away from the door, trick-or-treaters and Halloween activities. Frequently-opening doors can provide an easy escape route for a startled pet, so temporary confinement to a room away from the frenzy might be more relaxing for everyone. Turn on some soothing music to cover the racket and give him some of his favorite things for company. Be sure your pet is wearing a sturdy collar with current ID information, just in case.
I think pretty much everyone gets it that chocolate is toxic to dogs, cats and even ferrets, but you need to be watchful of the candy bowl because the cellophane and foil wrappers can also be dangerous if swallowed. Traditional Halloween decorations such as pumpkins, squash and Indian corn are considered relatively nontoxic, but they could cause gastric upset if ingested. If you suspect your pet has swallowed a harmful substance, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, 888-426- 4435.
A carved pumpkin is certainly festive, but flames in jack-o-lanterns and hot wax can singe your pet's fur or burn its skin very quickly. Lighted pumpkins can be toppled over easily by a rambunctious dog or kitten and start a fire. If you have decorations or lights that are plugged in, keep electric wires and cords out of reach to avoid shock and be watchful to prevent harm from glass or plastic shards if chewed.
Follow these simple ideas to help you and your
pet stay safe for a fun Halloween. I
Jan Jaeger is owner of Geronimo's, Ltd., Nantucket's pet supply and gift shop, and is a member of DWAA and CWA (Dog and Cat Writer's Associations of America). Her pets at home are Junior, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever and three cats. At the shop are the cats, Messrs. Fish and Chips, Flower bunny, Willie guinea pig and two budgies. Send e-mail to jan@geronimos.com |
