October is an exciting month – Autumn is in full bloom, the holidays are just around the corner, and, of course, Halloween is near! While families stock up on costumes and treats, it’s vital to remember the importance of keeping your pet safe during Halloween activities. Not just at risk of getting into candies, there are many other ways your pet can get hurt or cause mischief on Halloween. Prevent a scary accident from happening by following these simple tricks below:
1. Keep Candy out of Reach
It may seem obvious, but it can be easier than you think for your pets to get into dangerous candy this time of year. Chocolates—especially baking or dark chocolate—can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and seizures. Candies that contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener, can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar, subsequent loss of coordination, and seizures. Make sure candy is secured high up and out of reach of your precious furry friends!
2. Secure Your Pets
If you plan on handing out candy, make sure your furry friends aren’t at risk of darting outside through your door. Keep pets in another room, or secured nearby (think: baby gates, exercise pens, etc.) so you can keep an eye on them as you hand out treats to your trick-or-treaters! If your pets seem especially stressed with all of the unexpected visitors, you may want to invest in a thundershirt to keep them calm.
3. Be Careful with Costumes
Many people love dressing up their pets for Halloween – and that’s all great and adorable! However, it’s important to observe your pet for any signs of distress – is the costume too tight? Too loose? Can your pet breathe and see properly? Some pets can find costumes rather stressful. Try a festive bandana, collar or leash instead!
4. Keep Pets Easily Identifiable
Want to bring your furry friend along with you while you trick-or-treat? Make sure your pet doesn’t get spooked too easily; it’s also a good idea to invest in a reflective pet vest so that drivers and other trick-or-treaters can spot them. While you may be reluctant to cover up your pet’s costume with a vest, safety should always be the priority! Make sure your pet has an up-to-date ID tag as well!
5. Watch Your Decorations
Carved jack-o-lanterns are fun and festive, but keep in mind that pets can easily knock over a lit pumpkin, starting a fire. Popular Halloween decor like pumpkins and corn are considered relatively nontoxic, but can cause stomach discomfort in curious pets who decide to nibble on them. Also, even if you know your own pets are going to be secured during Halloween festivities, keep in mind that trick-or-treaters may bring their pets along to your door – make sure your porch is safe from wires, open flames and other tricky hazards!