Halloween Saftey Tips For Pets

Kids of all ages love Halloween for the chance to get dressed up and use their imagination to become whatever they want. However, Halloween is not fun for all family members your pets may be at risk during the spooky holiday. Here is a list of tips to help make sure everyone has a fun and safe Halloween this year and every year.

Make sure to walk your dog early in the day

If you can get your dogs walk in early in the day you will be able to avoid treat or treaters and make sure they get the exercise they need.

Make sure to bring your pet indoors before treat or treaters and prankers come out in the evening.

Keep all candy and candy wrappers away from your pets

All forms of chocolate especially dark chocolate contain theobromine, which is toxic to pets and can be lethal. Halloween candies that contain xylitol are also poisonous to pets. Even a small amount can cause seizures and liver failure if your dog has eaten anything with xylitol get them to the vet immediately.

Candy wrappers can still smell yummy enough to eat even when the candy is all gone and can become a choking hazard to your pet.

Keep Pet Indoors

Costumes can scare pets and change the way we look, add that to unfamiliar people knocking on the door and your pet might run out the door. Also, Halloween is a night for pranksters who have been known to tease, injure, steal and even kill pets on Halloween. Black cats are especially at risk on Halloween.

Designate A Safe Space For Your Pet Indoors

Outside can be a scary place with trick-or-treaters knocking on your door wearing strange costumes. This can cause your pet to try to escape or become aggressive.

Keep your pet in a room away from the front door.  Often leaving something like the T.V. on will help them remain calm and relaxed.

Glow sticks can be harmful

While glow sticks can keep people safe on Halloween they can be very dangerous for your pets. Make sure your pet does not chew on a glow stick the chemicals inside of glow sticks can make your pet sick and burn their mouth.

Be careful With Lit Pumpkins Around Your Pet

Your pet may knock over a candle-lit pumpkin leading to burns or a fire. Consider using a battery-lit no flame candle instead, and as an extra bonus, you can use it for many years to come.

If your dog or cat accidentally ingests any potentially harmful products and you need emergency advice, please consult your veterinarian or the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 (a fee applies). Have a safe and fun Halloween.