Time flies faster than a witch’s broomstick and we are truly frightened that Halloween is right around the corner. While you enjoy a pensive mood lamenting where the year has gone, might we suggest taking one more quiet moment to ponder Halloween safety for your pet? The best way to approach Halloween – and all it’s ensuing madness – is to prepare for the worst (and hope for the best), and the following list of Halloween pet safety tips will help you and your pet stay as safe as possible so the real fun can be had.
Costumes – Despite the personal opinion of many naysayers, loads of people cannot resist dressing their pet up. If your pet is in to it, use caution and constant supervision when getting them all gussied up. Airways and vision should always be clear. Monitor their hydration, temperature, and possible signs of fatigue, stress, or frustration. Check out the materials and take notice of any loose parts that could endanger your pet.
Treats – We cannot emphasize enough that it is crucial to keep Halloween treats away from your pets. This includes the treat bowl and any possible loose treats they might find on – and around – Halloween. Any treats that contain chocolate, Xylitol, raisins, and macadamia nuts should be strictly prohibited. We recommend keeping your treats for passing trick-or-treaters in a container that has a lid. Also beware of candy wrappers. Seemingly innocuous, candy wrappers can cause major intestinal blockages if consumed and should be avoided at all costs.
Decor – Making your house one of the spookiest on the block is fun for kids and grownups alike. Pets, however, can get entangled in electric cords or chew on them, which could result in life-threatening electric shock. They can also be frightened or disoriented by decorations that move, talk, or flash so, if possible, use sparingly. Candles displayed in your jack o’lantern should be kept outside due to their implicit fire hazard if knocked over by your pet. Pumpkin (in large amounts) and decorative corn should be kept away from pets because, if eaten, they can cause digestive upset. Finally, glow sticks should be kept out of your pet’s way. If chewed on, dibutyl phthalate phenol can be released causing vomiting, redness, gagging, and drooling.
Identification – We advise keeping your pet inside at night at least a couple of days prior to Halloween for the sole reason of keeping them out of harm’s way. Check your pet’s tags and update microchip information, if applicable. You may not intend your pet to get outside on Halloween but the mood is festive,loud, and unpredictable which could easily result in your pet darting out the door the next time the bell rings. Fastening a reflective collar is also a great idea.
Alternatives For The Anxious Pet
Your pet may become agitated by the influx of people coming to the door all with different sounds, scents, and alienating disguises. Stressed animals react in ways you may have never seen before, so make preparations now for your pet’s safety and comfort. Create a safe space – away from the front door – for your pet in a quiet, dim room full of comfortable blankets, pillows, toys, water, litter box (if necessary), and maybe even healthy pet treats.
Above All, Stay Safe This Halloween
If you decide to have your pet accompany your trick-or-treating we advise that your pet:
Remains leashed or held the entire time
Receives careful and close attention
Should you have any questions about possible poisoning, blockage, injury please call us immediately.
Happy Howl-o-ween!
Time flies faster than a witch’s broomstick and we are truly frightened that Halloween is right around the corner. While you enjoy a pensive mood lamenting where the year has gone, might we suggest taking one more quiet moment to ponder Halloween safety for your pet? The best way to approach Halloween – and all it’s ensuing madness – is to prepare for the worst (and hope for the best), and the following list of Halloween pet safety tips will help you and your pet stay as safe as possible so the real fun can be had.
