Tricks and treats and tips oh my! Halloween can be a very stressful and spooky experience for any pet. However, there are many ways you can protect your pet from the ghosts and goblins of the night. Here are a few safety tips you should consider during your spooktacular preparations.
• Keep Halloween treats out of your pet’s reach. Many deliciously sweet treats are known to contain pet toxins, such as chocolate or xylitol. Instead offer your pet a biscuit specifically created or labeled for them. If your pet does ingest a toxin, please contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your local veterinarian.
• Bring your pets indoors before night falls. Pets can easily become spooked as kids dressed in costumes can appear drastically different in the shadows of the night. There may also be noises pets are not accustomed to which could cause a pet to escape out of fear. In case your pet does become lost, ensure they are wearing their identification tags with up-to-date information. (Note: It is also beneficial to microchip your pet.)
• Decorate with care and keep wires out of your pet’s reach. Pets can easily knock over decorations in and around your home so swap out real candles with battery operated candles. You may also want to consider swapping out decorative plants or corn as these could cause your pet to experience a gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
• Dress up your pet to THEIR content. Some pets experience a large amount of stress when wearing articles of clothing. So, before the big day, be sure to try the costume on your pet to confirm sizing and comfort level. During your pet’s fitting, also check for articles or pieces that could potentially be hazardous to your pet. (No one wants to have a piece of their costume hindering their movement, sight or breathing.) As an alternative if your pet does show signs of distress, opt for a festive bandana or collar instead.
• Above all else, if your pet does not wish to participate in the howling haunts of Halloween, keep them in doors and in a safe space away from the front door. You can also minimize noise and anxiety by sitting outside to greet trick-or-treaters. This will give your pet space to be at peace while you enjoy the evening’s ghoulish fun.
Stay safe this Halloween and celebrate in a way both you and your pet can have fun!