This time of the year can be exciting for candy givers and trick-or-treaters alike. Our furry friends, however, might not feel the same way. Halloween can be unpleasant for them if owners don’t take precaution. Here are some things you should avoid to keep your pet safe this Halloween.
1. Do not give your pets Halloween candies.
Halloween candies may be a treat for any trick-or-treater, but they can be lethal for dogs. 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.
2. Don’t leave your pets out in the yard.
Some pranksters tease, injure, steal, and even kill pets on Halloween night. Even if you feel it is okay to leave them out because they have always been fine on their own, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
3. Don’t keep pets by the door.
Your door will be opening many times to greet strangers wearing odd costumes and yelling for their treats. This can be scary for your dog. Your pet might growl and bark at the children at your door, or could dart to the door and run away.
4. Don’t place Halloween plants near pets.
Pumpkins and corn are relatively non-toxic, but can cause gastrointestinal upset when eaten in large quantities. They can also cause intestinal blockage if your pets swallow large pieces of these plants.
5. Don’t forget to safety check your pet’s costume.
Though there isn’t anything wrong with wanting to dress up your pet for Halloween, decide on a costume that isn’t annoying or unsafe. Make sure that costumes will not restrict movement and breathing. Your pets should still be able to see, hear, and bark/meow clearly. Some pets find costumes stressful altogether. If you would still like to get them in costume though, a festive bandana should do the trick.