Avoid Halloween Hazards: Safety Tips for Pet Owners
There’s no bones about it: Halloween is one of the best holidays of the year, and certainly the highlight of the fall season for many families. Between all of the exciting and fun seasonal activities, parades, displays, and outings, focusing on pet safety and wellness can become a bit of afterthought. We can help you stay on track with a proactive approach to Halloween pet safety.
Halloween Pet Hazards
Unfortunately, there are numerous possible hazards related to Halloween, with several being prevalent throughout the entire fall season. The good news is that we have the time to prepare a defense against loss/separation, illness, or injury.
Who Knows Why
Dogs simply cannot resist chocolate. Perhaps the impulse comes from the shiny, crinkly wrappers, the smell, or the decadent flavor. Regardless of why they can’t help themselves when it comes to chocolate, the fact is that it’s 100% to their detriment.
Depending on the type of chocolate and the amount consumed, symptoms of toxicity range between serious to possibly life-threatening. Vomiting, shaking, tremors, and any changes to behavior should signal a veterinary emergency.
A Sugar Substitute
Xylitol is a common sugar substitute found in candy, gum, peanut butter, and baked goods. Even a very small amount can lead to weakness, seizures, liver failure, and loss of coordination. Xylitol poisoning can be very serious; seek help right away.
Protecting Pets During Halloween
The sights and sounds of Halloween can be thrilling, but they can also freak a pet out to the point of running away. Please be sure that your pet’s microchip is up to date and purchase new ID tags and a collar if these are worn.
On Halloween (and the days leading up to it), it’s best to not let your pet out to roam around unattended. Always have a safe, quiet space for them to retreat to. Purchase a white noise machine to filter out noise, and give them an opportunity to exercise before the trick-or-treaters arrive. Alternatively, turn off your exterior house lights and have a quiet night in with your best friend.
Halloween Dangers for Pets
Pet costumes are really fun and festive but should only be used with extreme caution. Even if a pet appears at ease at the start of wearing a costume, they may quickly find it hot, scratchy, tight, and irritating. Watch carefully for any signs of distress and remove the costume promptly.
Generally, pet costumes should:
- Not restrict movement or vision in any way
- Be breathable and soft
- Not have any embellishments that could become hazardous
Please do not add any glow sticks to your pet’s costume or collar, but reflective tape or gear is a good idea for walking around at night.
Halloween Pet Safety
If you need any help to prepare for Halloween this year, please give our team at MarketPlace Veterinary Hospital a call at (916) 939‑1705.