Halloween is an annual event that many children and adults look forward to enthusiastically, anticipating a day and evening filled with masks, candy, and pranks. But this holiday can be particularly spooky for the furry children in your family. To make Halloween fun for all your family members, take note of these Halloween safety tips for your pet.
1. Costume Caution
Pet costumes are adorable, but many pets aren’t comfortable wearing them. If you do dress up your pet:
- Choose comfort over style: Make sure the costume doesn’t restrict movement, breathing, vision, or hearing.
- Avoid choking hazards: Steer clear of costumes with small, dangling parts that could be chewed off, like buttons and strings.
- Make it non-toxic: Don’t use hair dyes or paints that your pet could lick off their fur, as they may be toxic if ingested.
- Test it first: Let your pet try on the costume before Halloween to see how they react.
If your pet seems uncomfortable or stressed, it’s best to skip the costume and opt for a festive bandana or collar instead. Subtle signs of anxiety in dogs can include holding their tail low or tucking it between their legs, keeping their ears back, licking their lips, yawning, pacing, shaking, panting, widening their eyes (showing the whites), or dilated pupils.
2. Keep Candy Out of Reach
Halloween candy is a no-no for pets. Common dangers include:
- Chocolate: Toxic to pets.
- Xylitol: Found in sugar-free gum and candies; extremely dangerous for pets.
- Raisins: Can cause kidney failure in pets.
- Candy wrappers: Can lead to choking or digestive blockages.
Always store candy in sealed containers and keep it well out of reach.
Plus, dogs may gobble up candy wrappers and all. Cellophane or foil wrappers are big trouble when swallowed. Intestinal upsets, gastrointestinal blockages, and pancreatitis can result when your pet eats items not normally on their menu.
3. Watch the Decorations
Decorations can be fun for humans but hazardous for pets:
- Lit candles: Curious pets can knock them over, causing burns or fires.
- Electrical cords: Chewing on cords can lead to shocks or burns.
- Fake cobwebs and string lights: These can be choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
Even pumpkin and pumpkin seeds can upset a pet’s stomach, especially when consumed in large quantities. Opt for pet-safe décor and keep fragile or dangerous items out of reach.
4. Doorbell Drama
The constant ringing of the doorbell and the parade of costumed visitors can be stressful for pets. Even pets that normally love children can be thrown off by the constant ring of the doorbell or knocking, the sheer number of visitors, and the weird appearance of their human friends.
- Create a safe space: Set up a quiet room with your pet’s bed, toys, and calming music, and let your pet rest there, away from the frenzy.
- Use calming aids: Consider pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps if your pet is prone to stress.
- Secure exits: Make sure your pet can’t slip out the door or window during the excitement.
5. ID and Microchip Check
Pets can easily escape with doors opening and closing frequently. To keep them safe, make sure:
- Your pet is wearing a collar with an up-to-date ID tag.
- Their microchip information is current in case they get lost.
Include Your Pet in the Fun – Safely!
If your pet enjoys socializing, consider including them in Halloween festivities with:
- A short walk in costume (if they’re comfortable).
- A pet-friendly Halloween treat.
- A photo session with fall-themed props.
Halloween can be a blast for everyone, including pets, when safety is a priority. With a little preparation, you can enjoy the spooky season while keeping your furry companions safe, happy, and stress-free.