10 Halloween Safety Tips for Pets
Our pets are just as much part of the family as a blood relative. This time of year people we love to make our furry friends part of the fun. Here are ten safety tips to keep in mind.
1. Keep pets away from the candy
Chocolate can be dangerous and lethal for dogs and cats. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, and seizures. Halloween candies containing xylitol can be poisonous to dogs as well. Xylitol can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, loss of coordination, and seizures.
2. Bring pets inside on Halloween
Pranksters have been known to tease, injure, steal, and kill pets on Halloween night.
3. Keep pets away from the door
While passing out candy the door will be constantly opening and closing on Halloween. Also, strangers will be dressed in costumes and yelling loudly for candy this can be scary for pets.
4. Keep your black cats inside several days before and several days after Halloween
Black cats are especially at risk from pranks. Many shelters will not adopt out black cats during the month of October as a safety precaution.
5. Keep Halloween plants, like pumpkins and corn, out of reach
While being nontoxic these plants can cause gastrointestinal upset or intestinal blockage if eaten in large quantities.
6. Don't keep lit pumpkins around pets
Excited or scared pets run the risk of burning themselves or knocking over lit pumpkins. One easy way to avoid this is to use battery operated tea lights.
7. Keep wires and electric light cords out of reach
Your pet can chew on the wires and cords causing cuts or electrical shock. The electrical shock can be strong enough to become life threatening.
8. Don't dress your pet in a costume unless they are used to it
If you decide to get your pet a costume, make sure it isn't annoying or unsafe. Remember it should not constrict movement, hearing, or the ability to breathe, bark, or meow.
9. Always do a dress rehearsal with your pet
If your pet seems distressed, allergic, or shows odd behavior opt for their “birthday suit” or a festive bandanna.
10. Remember their ID and tags
If your pet escapes having the proper identification will increase the chances that he or she will be returned. Remember to keep your information up-to-date too!
