Halloween Safety Tips for Pets
While Halloween is a fun time for pets and their people, there are plenty of potential hazards for our fury (and scaly) friends. The good news is that with a proactive approach to Halloween pet safety, you can achieve a level of peace of mind and enjoy the holiday with your best friend.
Going Out/Staying In
Some pets are highly adaptable to their circumstances, and can enter the Halloween season with little management of interference. This doesn’t mean, however, that they are immune to the numerous risks inherent with Halloween.
Other pets are incredibly reactive to the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations of this time of year, and may be more likely to experience some kind of danger to their health and well-being.
Either way, all pets deserve close supervision, alternative plans, and reassurance that everything is going to be okay.
A Word About Identification
Accidental loss or separation can be prevented by:
- Checking your pet’s ID tags and collar for any wear and tear; update if necessary.
- Ensuring your pet’s microchip information shows your current phone number and address.
- Affixing baby gates by the front door to limit a pet’s access to the outdoors.
- Checking on your backyard’s fence posts and gates for any loose parts or easy areas to dig beneath.
- Locking doors and windows.
Halloween Pet Hazards
The obvious villain of Halloween is the candy, especially chocolate. Depending on the type and volume consumed, pet reactions to chocolate can range from pretty serious to life-threatening. Don’t take any chances with your pet’s health; store any candy off the floor or easy to reach surfaces. If you see any changes to your pet’s appearance or behavior, please call us immediately.
Xylitol, a common sugar alternative, is found in sugar-free gum, mint, baked goods, and more can create dangerous health conditions for pets. Always seek emergency help when symptoms of Xylitol poisoning are present, including loss of coordination, seizures, or collapse.
Decorations and Costumes
Halloween decor, such as ornamental corn, candles, glow sticks, animatronic displays, string lights, and more can add to the thrill of the holiday, but they can cause a range of problems in pets, such as:
- Stress, fear or anxiety
- Burns
- Choking or GI obstruction
- Entanglement
Pet costumes must not restrict movement or vision. Pets must be able to eat, drink water, and go to the bathroom freely. If the fabric becomes hot or itchy, you may see them try to wriggle out of it which can lead to them getting stuck. Watch their behavior for any signs of discomfort and remove their costume before they panic.
A Pet-Friendly Halloween
Some pets enjoy a nice, quiet evening with their favorite people, others enjoy trick-or-treaters ringing the bell. Wherever your pet falls on this range, be sure to take their cues seriously to provide the best possible holiday for them.
If you have any questions or concerns about Halloween pet safety, please call All Critters Veterinary Hospital at (614) 305-2085.