Halloween can be a fun celebration for everyone. But for our four-legged furry pets at home, let’s face it, it can be a downright nightmare. Here are some tips to assist in decreasing stress and dangers this year.
1. The goodies are not for your pets
All forms of chocolate, especially dark or baking, can be dangerous and even fatal for dogs and cats. Candies containing even a small amount of the artificial sweetener xylitol can also be poisonous in dogs. Xylitol toxicity in cats is still questionable however always better to be safe than sorry.
2. Bring your pets indoors on Halloween
Unfortunately, it is common knowledge that vicious pranksters tend to tease, torment, steal even injure or kill innocent pets on Halloween night. Very disheartening and uncomforting so best to be safe and bring your pets indoors.
3. Confine those fur babies and keep them away from the door
Not only will your door will be opening and closing all night on Halloween night but strangers will be dressed in unusual costumes and making silly, loud noises and gestures. This can be quite scary for pets. Especially if you have a territorial dog. Securing them will not only protect them from being scared but it will also prevent potential flight risks. No one ever wants to be out searching for their missing beloved pet.
4. Keep those indoor / outdoor cats indoor even a few days AFTER Halloween. Especially black cats. This goes back to cruel pranksters and pet safety matters.
5. Keep your Halloween pumpkin and corn plants out of reach
Most are relatively nontoxic, however, they can still cause gastrointestinal, upset should your pet ingest them in large quantities. Even worse, your pet could get an intestinal blockage requiring surgery.
6. Lit pumpkins are a fire hazard to pets
If your pet gets too close to your lit pumpkin, they risk burning themselves or knocking it over and causing a disastrous fire.
7. Set up those lights and scary decorations, but keep those wires and electrical cords out of reach
If chewed, your pet could cut him or herself on glass or plastic or even receive a potentially life-threatening electrical shock.
8. Only dress up pets you know will love it
Make sure the costume is not annoying or unsafe. It should not constrict movement, hearing or the ability to breath, bark or meow.
9. Try your costume on prior to Halloween
You may love your costume but your pet may not. If your pet seems distressed or shows abnormal behavior you may want to rethink your costume.
10. Microchip and tag your pet
In the event your pet does escape and become lost, having proper identification will increase the changes that he or she will be returned home safe and sound. Make sure all of the ID information is up to date.
