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Spring Unleashed

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 01:05:57 GMT

Keeping Your Dog Happy and Healthy in Mud Season

This year in Steamboat Springs, spring didn’t exactly wait its turn.

After one of the warmest, driest winters in recent memory, snowpack across Northwest Colorado has been well below normal. Currently, our area is seeing conditions closer to late April or even May than late March. In fact, much of the state spent the winter hovering near record-low snow levels, with long stretches of unseasonably warm weather.

So instead of the slow, slushy transition we’re used to, mud season has arrived early—and fast.

As the snow melts (or, in many places, is already gone and forgotten), a new season quietly emerges—one we’re not used to this time of year.. Yep, even as the ski area eeks out a couple final weeks at the highest elevations, we’re already well into “mud season” in the valley. More and more trails are turning tacky or dry almost overnight, snow banks shrink into patchy slush, and the fields around town start revealing all the treasures (and trouble) hidden beneath what little snowpack we had. For dogs, it’s a sensory wonderland. For their humans, it’s a bit more complicated.

If you’ve lived here a while, you know the moment: your pup charges ahead on a thawed-out trail, nose glued to the ground, tail wagging wildly, only to stop and gleefully roll in something… questionable. What little snow we had still hid a lot, but as it disappears—earlier than usual this year—so do the filters between your dog and whatever half-decomposed snack nature left behind. It might be elk scat, a discarded sandwich from what was once lunch during a mid-”winter” skin up Emerald, or a dead mouse that didn’t survive the winter. To your dog, it’s jackpot. To you? A looming vet bill.

Spring in the high country is prime time for upset stomachs, and unfortunately, we can’t always stop our dogs from sneaking in a quick bite of the unknown. But we can be prepared.

As spring runoff transforms Steamboat’s landscape into a muddy, sun-drenched playground—earlier than we’d typically expect—dogs revel in the sensory overload of sights, smells, and splashes.

“We have a lot of probiotics,” says Eli Campbell, owner of Paws and Claws, Steamboat’s beloved local pet supply shop. “Beyond sensitive stomach foods, there are also quite a few digestive help supplements now to help them transition back from upset stomachs to more normal stool. Pumpkin works great too—it’s just about getting their digestive tract back in balance.” Having these simple remedies on hand can help nip minor tummy troubles in the bud. Of course, if symptoms persist or you suspect something more serious, always call your vet.

Spring adventures can mean upset stomachs. Pumpkin-based digestive support like Firm Up helps promote healthy digestion and stool consistency—perfect for this early mud season.

Besides the buffet of questionable cuisine, spring also means trails coated in chemical-laced runoff from roads and parking lots. Most of us wouldn’t dream of walking barefoot through that slush, but our dogs do it daily. Even in a lighter snow year, melting ice and early runoff reveal a mix of salt, sand, antifreeze, and other substances that can irritate paws or cause internal issues if licked off later. Wiping down your dog’s feet after every walk might seem like overkill, but it’s one of the simplest ways to keep them safe.

“We have a number of different towelettes you can carry in your car and use before your dog hops back in,” Erin Campbell adds. “There are also dry and wet shampoos you can spray on and wipe off—super helpful if you’re not near a water source.”

Wet paws may leave more than just prints behind. As the ice melts—what little we had this year—it reveals a mix of salt, scoria, antifreeze, and other hidden hazards that can irritate paws—or cause harm if licked later.

Then there’s the grooming. As temperatures rise, dogs start shedding their winter coats. Combine that with constant mud and moisture (or in some cases, dry trails followed by messy patches), and you’ve got the perfect recipe for mats, tangles, and skin irritation.

“A lot of dogs have sensitive skin,” Eli notes. “We carry hypoallergenic shampoos with just a few effective ingredients. And depending on your dog’s coat, there are shampoos that either help expedite the release of that winter coat—or balance out the oils to help them hold on to the hair that shouldn’t come out yet.”

And when it comes to brushing, Erin says it’s all about using the right tools: “The Furminator is great for getting rid of the undercoat, but so are rakes and combs. It really depends on your dog’s hair type.”

A quick daily brushing can do wonders—and bonus, it saves your house from becoming a tumbleweed of fur. Regular baths with gentle dog shampoos can also keep allergens and grime at bay, especially if your dog likes diving nose-first into whatever puddle appears.

Wet paws may leave more than just prints behind. As the ice melts, it reveals a mix of salt, scoria, antifreeze, and other hidden hazards that can irritate paws—or cause harm if licked later.

Speaking of puddles—avoid them. What looks like a harmless sip of spring melt can be loaded with bacteria, road chemicals, or even giardia. And with lower snowpack this year, some of that standing water is showing up earlier—and sticking around in different places than usual. Bringing a collapsible water bowl on hikes ensures your pup stays hydrated without turning to mystery slush. And with the increase in exercise as cabin fever fades, don’t forget that your dog’s dietary needs may shift too. More movement might mean they need a little more fuel—or maybe a change in treats.

Of course, we can’t talk about spring in Steamboat without mentioning the return of wildlife. With less snow and earlier access to open terrain, moose, bears, coyotes, skunks and even porcupines are already out and about. While your pup may think it’s their duty to say hello, the best thing you can do is keep them leashed, especially at dawn and dusk. Wild animals are waking up hungry, protective, and less patient than usual. You’ll be doing both your dog and the wildlife a favor by keeping interactions to a minimum.

And don’t forget the tiniest threats of the season. “Fleas and ticks are already surfacing with this warm weather,” Eli warns. “We carry sprays and collars with more natural formulas that are safe preventative options for dogs and cats.”

And because it’s the season of exploration—arriving a little early this year—make sure your pup’s ID tags are updated. If they get loose chasing a deer or wander off on a solo mission, a microchip and a legible phone number could be the key to a happy reunion. It’s a small thing, but in a town where adventure is around every corner, it makes all the difference.

Mud season in Steamboat can feel like a mess. But beneath the grime, it’s also a time of discovery—for both dogs and their humans. This year, that in-between season just showed up ahead of schedule. It’s still a time to transition together, stretch our legs, and shake off the frost—whatever version of winter we had. With a little extra care, some expert tools from Paws ‘n Claws, and a willingness to laugh at just how dirty things can get, we can make it a healthy, happy time for our four-legged companions.

February Is National Pet Dental Health Month

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 16:03:56 GMT

Give Your Furry Valentine the Gift of Oral Health This February

February – a month often associated with love – is also National Pet Dental Health Month . Showing love to your pet may come in the form of walks, snuggles and treats, but perhaps this month giving your pet a boost when it comes to oral health is the best way to show them you care.

Dental health is more important than some may think. Like humans, a pet’s dental health plays an important role in their overall health. Poor dental health in your furry friend can lead to other health problems such as jaw fractures, increased risk of heart disease, inflammation, a weakened immune system and weight loss – often associated with pain and discomfort while eating.

“Dental health, whether you are a pet or a human, is vital to preventing not only oral disease, but also dissemination or spread of bacteria that can cause disease in other organs such as the heart and kidneys,” explains local veterinarian Dr. Karen Nann at Pet Kare Clinic. “Also, as humans that live to kiss our furry friends, no one wants stinky kisses, especially this Valentine’s Day!”

Whether it’s your human partner, or your furry one, fresh kisses are always better for Valentine’s Day!

Did you know that about 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of dental disease by age three? Just like us, dogs and cats build up plaque on their teeth, which often turns into tartar, and is much harder to remove. If not regularly removed, a plaque and subsequent tartar buildup on your pet’s teeth will cause periodontal disease, the most common dental condition in dogs and cats. Periodontal disease will then slowly destroy the tissue surrounding their teeth and roots, leading to further oral health and overall health complications.

Preventative measures can – and should be – taken at home to prevent dental disease and other associated health problems. Regular tooth brushing is the single best way to help your dog or cat keep their oral health in check. Dental chews and treats are also helpful, but should not replace regular tooth brushing; instead, they should be used as additional dental care.

“The gold standard of care is brushing, but in order to be successful, you need to brush your pet’s teeth daily, or no less than every other day,” says Dr. Karen. “At Pet Kare Clinic, we are always happy to demonstrate or give tips on how to be successful!”

Additionally, there are some great products to help prevent dental disease that you can find at Paws N’ Claws in Central Park Plaza.

From toothbrushes to treats, there are plenty of ways to keep your pet’s smile shining bright!

Beccy Brane, Paws N’ Claws employee, shares some helpful information regarding products you may find on their shelves. “Whether it’s maintenance or a serious problem, a product that has kelp in it is amazing,” says Beccy. “Dental Health Flakes or PlaqueOff both work from the inside out, whereas dental chews and bones – that still have kelp in them – are more about pulling the plaque off their teeth. These are some great preventative options that give their gut health a boost as well.”

Woof makes the Bite n’ Brush to make toothbrushing easy, fun and tasty! Woof also makes the Honest Chew with a great teeth-cleaning texture, along with safe and simple ingredients!

Paws N’ Claws owner, Eli Campbell, also adds, “small dogs are more prone to dental issues because of their tight teeth configuration. It’s good to stay ahead of it rather than fall behind. By staying ahead of dental issues, you are in turn lengthening the life span of your pet. Raw bones, kelp and even chew toys add an element of removing plaque and tartar.”

BetterBone, made of food-grade and clean ingredients, offers a great texture for pups to satisfy their chewing desires along with their teeth-cleaning needs!

Along with regular care and preventative measures, your veterinarian will keep tabs on your pet’s dental health at each wellness exam. “Unlike humans, there is no prescribed time a pet will need a dental cleaning,” explains Dr. Karen. “It is recommended every six months in humans, but in pets, we assess their calculus build up and level of gingivitis at their wellness exams. When an animal has significant dental disease, we start seeing fractured teeth, severe gingivitis or feline oral resorptive lesions in cats. At this point, we will recommend a dental cleaning. Also, something to be aware of is that dental health in animals has a significant genetic link. Typically, small breed dogs will need more dental cleanings as compared to larger breed dogs, and in cats, it is typically due to autoimmune issues such as feline oral resorptive lesions or stomatitis, which require earlier dental cleanings.”

At Paws ‘n Claws, we love that you are a member of our loyal pack! Being a member of our loyal pack means more savings and frequent buyer deals for you and your furry friend! If you are not a member, please come visit us and join the pack today!

With these helpful tips from our friends at Paws N’ Claws and Pet Kare Clinic, boosting your pet’s oral health is a great gift idea this Valentine’s Day – and a great way for those canine or feline kisses to not be stinky! And of course, don’t forget those oh so cute Valentine’s Day treats and toys for the furry love in your life!

Pinks, purples and reds adorn the current toy display, along with special Valentine’s Day treats and cookies that will show your pup how much you care!

Winter Adventures with Your Powder Hound

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:13:45 GMT

Steamboat Springs, Colorado – known for its champagne powder® – is not only a winter playground for people – it’s great for four-legged powder hounds as well. From skiing to snowshoeing to hiking to fat biking to everyday trips to the dog park, there are plenty of wintertime adventures to enjoy with your pup. Paws ‘n Claws , known for being the experts in “all things pet” at their Central Park Plaza location, shares some wintertime tips to make adventures with your powder hound enjoyable for all.

A powder-pup day in Steamboat! Watching your dog bound through fresh powder brings so much joy to all!

“Watching your dog bound through light and fluffy champagne powder® is one of the many joys that winter in Steamboat brings,” says co-owner Erin Campbell. However, while colder winter temperatures negate the overheating concern that summertime brings, they do bring other challenges to consider. “Before setting out on a big adventure, assess your furry friend’s cold tolerance,” explains Erin. “While some dogs have impressively thick fur coats that provide them with excellent wintertime insulation, others have hardly any insulation at all. Winter jackets and coats for canines are a great option to help insulate your not-so-furry friends, and come in a variety of fabrics, weights and sizes to keep your pup comfortable.” Providing them with warmth is certainly key, but so too is making sure you are aware of potential dangers and well-equipped to handle those scenarios.

Winter “pup-ventures” are “snow” much fun and can make for some of the best memories of the year!

While winter adventuring with your pup, make sure to keep tabs on their warmth level. Should you notice strong shivering followed by no shivering, lethargy or weakness or fur and skin that are cold to the touch, you will want to take quick action to warm your pup up. Getting your dog indoors as quickly as possible is the best option, however, there are preventable strategies to use while on longer wintertime adventures as well. “Consider bringing an extra coat for added warmth, high-energy snacks and a mat you can place your dog on to get them off the snow and ideally out of any cold wind,” advises Erin. “Also, make sure to check for signs of frostbite that most often affect a dog’s ears, nose or tail, and warm them up in your hands if needed.” Interestingly enough, canine paws have a unique blood circulation system – similar to those of wolves and arctic foxes – that allow them to stand in freezing snow without reducing their core body temperature. Even though your pup’s paws are naturally equipped to handle freezing temps, they may need added protection based on your winter activity of choice.

“Winter jackets and coats for canines are a great option to help insulate your not-so-furry friends, and come in a variety of fabrics, weights, and sizes to keep your pup comfortable,” says Erin.

If backcountry or Nordic skiing is your wintertime activity of choice with your pup, be prepared for any potential foot injuries or lacerations that can happen due to your sharp ski edges. Having a doggie first aid kit on hand is key and consider outfitting your pup in dog booties for added protection. “While injury can happen,” says co-owner Eli Campbell, “often dogs on these longer winter adventures will build up snow in their paws, so make sure to apply a canine foot salve like Musher’s Secret to repel the snow and keep your pup’s paws happy.”

Musher’s Secret is a great foot salve for dogs that helps to repel the snow and protect their paws. Skout’s Honor and Kin + Kind offer some great options as well!

Lastly, being well-prepared for adventures in the snow can be extremely beneficial should the worst-case scenario occur. “If your furry friend becomes injured or unable to walk, having a harness can be quite helpful should you need to carry them back to the trailhead,” explains Eli. “A harness on your dog is also a good anchor point should you need to pull them out of deep snow or a precarious situation – just make sure to have a leash on hand as well.”

A dog harness can be extremely useful should you need to carry your four-legged friends back to the trailhead or even pull them out of deep snow.

“Winter adventures with your pup can certainly create some of your best memories of the year as long as you make sure to set yourself and your furry friend up for success,” says Eli. “Keeping your dog warm, energized with the right nutrition and hydrated are basic yet essential steps to take when venturing outdoors with your powder hound in the colder months.” And beyond the basic yet essential steps, Eli, Erin and their team at Paws ‘n Claws are ready with expertise and gear to make sure you are well-equipped to handle any scenario that a winter “pup-venture” may bring.

Keeping the Holidays Merry and Bright for your Pet

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 21:06:13 GMT

Likely a touch naughty but hopefully more nice, your pets – whether they know it or not – are gearing up for a visit from Santa Paws. From holiday treats to festive toys to advent calendars, our crew at Paws ‘n Claws is ready to make your furry friend’s Christmas dreams come true.

“We find that pets – dogs or cats – like to open their own stockings and find surprise gifts on Christmas day just like we do, just like our kids do,” says Paws ‘n Claws co-owner Erin Campbell. “Whether it be a dog treat or a cat toy, they also enjoy being surprised with a new gift.”

Our pets enjoy gifts as much as we do—whether it’s a wholesome, all-natural treat or a cuddly new stuffy friend to play with!

While there is boundless excitement about holiday festivities, there are also inherent dangers during this season of magic. Christmas trees – as beautiful as they are – can be quite interesting and ultimately pose a threat to your pet. Dangling tinsel, yarn and string often spark curiosity in the feline world, while cute yet chewable ornaments hanging from lower branches can become a fun way to pass the time for your pup who likes to chew – consider hanging these items on higher branches out of reach. Also chew-worthy in the canine world can be electrical cords, which can impose the threat of electric shock or worse, so make sure to keep those cords concealed and out of chewable reach. Tethering your Christmas tree is also a good idea when you have cats who can climb and pups who can jump, to prevent potential injury, or at least frustration, from a toppling tree. And for those with a puppy who is into everything, utilizing play pens to block off the tree can also be a helpful option to keep everyone safe – and sane – during the holiday season.

Curious cats can’t resist exploring the new “scratching post” and “cat tower” you’ve brought into the house, but choose your decorations wisely to keep them safe!

Beautiful pine trees are not the only type of holiday flora making an appearance in many homes this season – so too are traditional plants like mistletoe, holly and poinsettias. Mistletoe and holly are toxic to dogs, and while poinsettias are not toxic, if ingested, they can cause oral irritation, vomiting and/or diarrhea. Also unsafe for pets to ingest are some of the common holiday foods that humans tend to enjoy. Chocolate, raisins and grapes, macadamia nuts, coffee and caffeine, citrus fruits, coconut and coconut oil, onions, garlic, chives, salty snack foods, yeast dough and nuts including almonds, pecans and walnuts are all culinary irritants in the animal world. Make sure to avoid leaving these unfriendly temptations wrapped under your tree or in a space easily accessible by your pet. Beyond human food, dogs and cats often get more and different treats this time of year, which can also cause stomach upset. “Around the holidays it is good to have probiotics on hand in case your pet consumes too much of even just their own cookies or food,” explains co-owner Eli Campbell. “Probiotics can really ease their digestion and help to avoid a potential mess on the floor during a busy time of the year.”

The holiday season is also a time when routines can be hard to follow, and more visitors than usual may appear in your home, or at least on your front porch making deliveries. For our furry friends who become anxious with a shift in routine or with visitors, make sure to create a safe and quiet space where they can escape to find comfort and peace. Also helpful for your anxious pet are treats with CBD or other calming elements, allowing them to enjoy the holidays as well. Eli says, “we carry some locally ‘baked in the ‘boat’ treats from Mountain Paw Bakery that have functional aspects to them as well. Sometimes the holidays can get people along with dogs and cats a little excited, and we are fortunate to carry treats with CBD and calming elements to ease their anxiety.”

While you’re checking off holiday wish lists, don’t forget about the furry friends still waiting for their fur-ever families at the Routt County Humane Society .

Undoubtedly a wonderful time to pamper your own pet as you spread the holiday cheer, don’t forget about those who may be spending the holidays on their own and in an animal shelter. Christmas is a great time to consider a donation in honor of your pet or a loved one who simply doesn’t need more stuff. Locally, the Routt County Humane Society (RCHS) accepts monetary donations, but also has a wish list program if you’re looking to donate an item or two. “There are people that have bought more than their pet needs all year long, so it is good to consider those that don’t have homes and are stuck in the shelter,” says Erin. “At Paws N’ Claws you can purchase dog treats, cat toys or other items for those animals spending their holiday at the local shelter.” Next time you’re in Paws N’ Claws, make sure to be on the lookout for “RCHS Wish List Giving Tree” helping you to easily purchase a needed item and leave it with the Paws ‘n Claws crew to give to the shelter.

From your local experts regarding “all things pet”, all of us here at Paws ‘n Claws would like to wish you and your furry friends a wonderfully merry and bright holiday season!

Adopt-a-Senior Pet Month

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 17:39:30 GMT

November is a month to celebrate and bring awareness to the many amazing shelter animals in this country. Coming off the heels of October, which is Adopt-a-Shelter Dog Month, November highlights the older shelter animal population with its designation as Adopt-a-Senior-Pet Month. Also in November is Animal Shelter Appreciation Week – always the first full week of November – and is a great time to honor not only animal shelters, but also the wonderfully compassionate people who dedicate their time to helping and supporting these inspiring animals.

Senior dogs, like their human companions, deserve love, dignity and a place to call home in their twilight years.

Just as November is a time to honor senior shelter animals, it is equally a time to raise awareness for these deserving dogs and cats. Did you know that if only one in 17 more families would choose to adopt a pet rather than purchase one, we would end the killing of cats and dogs in our nation’s shelters? Only one in 17, that’s it! With data from Best Friends Animal Society , it is estimated that millions of people plan to add a pet to their family in the coming year, and only one in 17 more would need to choose adoption over purchase for us to make the most amazing impact on some of the kindest souls out there – shelter dogs and cats.

There are around 3,900 animal shelters in the United States, and roughly 1,300 of those shelters are not yet deemed no-kill shelters. Sadly, every 90 seconds, dogs and cats are euthanized at those shelters simply because they have no place to call home. Just imagine, if only one in 17 more people would choose adoption, we could end such tragedy in our nation’s shelters.

Raising awareness within our own community and supporting adoption efforts, Paws ‘n Claws facilitates several programs that directly benefit the Routt County Humane Society (RCHS). Through the RCHS Wish List Program, customers can purchase items that are needed by the shelter at Paws N’ Claws and leave them at the store in a collection box that a shelter employee regularly picks up. Paws ‘n Claws also facilitates a pet food bag recycling program that is beneficial to the local shelter and environment alike.

Next time you’re at Paws ‘n Claws, look for items marked as part of the RCHS Wish List Program and make a difference for shelter animals!

“Through Midwestern Pet, which sells various brands like Earthborn Holistic, we offer a food bag recycling program,” explains Paws ‘n Claws co-owner Eli Campbell. “Customers can bring back their empty food bags for us to ship to a recycling organization that converts the product to a usable material. Based on the volume and weight that we send, the recycling organization then writes a check that is donated to either RCHS or Steamboat Digs Dogs, whichever program is designated for that month.”

Acknowledging that adoption is vitally important, the team at Paws ‘n Claws is always ready to help newly adopted additions to your family. “We offer a variety of anti-anxiety treats and toys, calming supplements and even anti-anxiety jackets that can really help calm a newly adopted pet who has been in the shelter for a while,” says Paws ‘n Claws co-owner Erin Campbell. And when it comes to food selection, Eli explains that patience is important as your newly adopted pet has most likely been eating different food brands, and it can take some time to adjust and find the right fit.

“In shelters you can find well-behaved, perfectly healthy, mixed-breed dogs – which mixed-breed dogs typically have longer life spans – that are available and in need of a good home,” says Erin. “There is a deep sense of gratitude in adopted pets. I feel like shelter pets are more thankful than so many dogs or cats out there as it seems like there is an element of even greater gratitude that comes along with adoption.”

A month known for being thankful, November is the perfect month to raise awareness for shelter animals, especially seniors, who are just waiting to add the wonderful element of gratitude to their future forever families. And with a very reasonable goal of just one in 17 more families choosing adoption over purchase, there is hope for these deeply kind souls residing in our nation’s shelters.

How to Keep Pets Safe and Calm in a Trick-or-Treat Filled October

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 18:16:44 GMT

Written by Erin Campbell, co-owner of Paws ‘n Claws

Full of tricks and treats, October is a month for spooky fun. And while most pets love treats, making sure they are canine or feline treats is especially important with Halloween right around the corner. In fact, Halloween can often be a stressful, toxic and dangerous time for pets, so keeping them safe and calm is key. As the new owners of Paws ‘n Claws, we have some insight and tricks to share on how best to keep your pets comfortable with the frightful fun that is soon to come.

Halloween can bring both tricks and treats for your pets!

As Halloween approaches, candy seems to be everywhere. Large bowls stocked and ready for trick-or-treating can certainly be tempting to humans, but have you considered how tempting they may be to our furry friends? While all candy is considered dangerous to pets, two kinds are especially toxic. Sugar-free candies containing xylitol, even in very small amounts, can be fatal to both dogs and cats. Chocolate – as most already know – is also quite toxic, especially in the form of dark or baking chocolate. While smaller amounts of milk chocolate generally aren’t too concerning, any amount of baking or dark chocolate is a concern. Should your furry friend ingest any xylitol or chocolate, it is extremely important to contact your veterinarian right away.

While you and your human family enjoy candy and sweet treats around Halloween, you might want to consider special pet-safe treats for your furry friends. For the first time this year, Paws ‘n Claws has a Halloween display filled with frightfully fun toys from Pet Lou and GivePet’s Howl-o-Ween, Love Bites, Magic Paw-Tion and Halloween Purr-Ty treats for dogs and cats. Beyond the Halloween-specific items, Paws ‘n Claws is also stocked with a wide range of fall-inspired treats. Co-owner Eli Campbell says, “From Bocce’s pumpkin, peanut butter and cinnamon soft treats to Honest Kitchen’s puréed pumpkin and goat’s milk probiotic cookies to Lord Jameson’s organic apple pops, we have a nice assortment of fall-themed treats for your pup. And not only are they fun for fall but they also have functional benefits as well to keep them healthy and moving.”

Give Pet’s Halloween treats are featured at Paws ‘n Claws, along with other fall-inspired treats! For every bag sold, GivePet donates enough treats for 10 shelter dogs, and has an overall goal of showing millions of shelter dogs a little extra love through their premium treats.

Frightfully fun Pet Lou dog toys greet you at Paws ‘n Claws this October!

A time for costumes, Halloween can certainly be festively fun, but also pose dangers some might not be aware of. While dressing your furry friend up can be exceptionally adorable, it is important to consider their comfort and safety level. As with jackets, cooling vests or other pet attire, it is important for anything your canine or feline wears to fit snuggly, but not be too tight or constricting. You want to avoid anything loose fitting that could cause entanglement, or that they would potentially chew and ingest. And while humans can easily voice their opinion on costumes, it is not so plain and simple for our canine and feline companions. Signs of anxiety in dogs can include lip licking, head turning, a tucked tail, stillness, running away, growling or barking, and are important to watch for. In our feline companions, take note of any behaviors indicating anxiety such as pacing, hiding, decreased appetite, vocalization, hypervigilance, trembling, salivation or excessive grooming. Should any of these behaviors present, removing the costume is important. Also, remember to only put a costume on your pet while supervised as they can chew off and ingest a portion of the costume, which could lead to intestinal obstructions.

Pets can add to your family costume when done in a way that considers their comfort.

Like costumes, Halloween decorations can also pose a threat to curious pets. Open flames in pumpkins can cause burns to inquisitive pets, wires running to decorations could be chewed by puppies or kittens and cause mouth burns, fake cobwebs and rotting pumpkins that might be enticing to eat can cause intestinal obstruction, and the solution used in fog machines can be toxic to pets. Glow sticks are also something to beware of as the chemical inside of them can be mildly toxic, causing profuse drooling, stinging, irritation and gastrointestinal upset if ingested.

Aside from costumes and decorations, the increase of unusual and perhaps frightening activity in or around your home can cause even more stress and anxiety in your pet. If you have a pet likely to be anxious around Halloween, providing a quiet and safe area in your home is an easy remedy during times of increased activity. Beyond that, Eli explains how calming remedies can also be helpful during more stressful and potentially scary times. “Calming products with melatonin or CBD are good ingredients to look for because they really do help to ease the anxiety,” says Eli. “CBD has been proven safe and effective and we even have some fall-inspired pumpkin CBD treats to keep them less anxious. And melatonin helps to mellow pets out and allows them to relax and sleep during stressful times. Check out Suzie’s Pumpkin CBD treats, Progility’s Calming Aid with Melatonin or locally-made Hemp Love CBD treats from Mountain Paw Bakery.”

With calming products, dogs can stay relaxed and enjoy the season.

With calming tricks and fall-inspired treats, Eli, Erin and their amazing team at Paws ‘n Claws are ready to help you and your furry companions enjoy the season that is upon us. As you partake in the festive fun, make sure to remember how best to accommodate your pet in allowing them to also enjoy the frightfully fun month of October.