On Halloween you only want treats, not tricks! Your dog loving friends at Dog is Good have some helpful tips for Halloween pet safety for your four-legged family members.
Halloween Decorations
Changes to a dog’s environment may cause undue stress. Fake cobwebs, furry spiders, plastic pumpkins may all be hazards and choking risks for your pup. Make sure all your Halloween decorations are up high and unreachable by the dog.
The Costume
There are so many crazy costumes for your dog. Pet costumes are super cute for your dog, but they can be dangerous as well. You may think your dog looks adorable, but it may be causing undue stress. Before October 31st, do a few dress rehearsals with wearing the costume. Costumes need to be comfortable for the dog and not restrict movement, breathing or sight. Masks and hats are cute accessories, but you need to keep them on for limited time and make sure your dog doesn’t make the costume a chew toy to swallow.
Safety Check
Before nighttime, bring all your pets indoors. In addition, your dog should 100% be wearing a collar with identification on Halloween. In the unfortunate event that they escape, having current ID and up to date microchip information is so important. If your dog is a flight risk, absolutely make sure they are confined to another part of your home on Halloween. If the front door opening repeatedly is tempting, keep them safe somewhere else. A room with soft lighting, music or the tv on is helpful for calming pets too.
Dogs also may be not the ideal candidates to take around the neighborhood for trick or treating. Having the kids hold a leash and their Halloween treats may just be too much. Masks and costumes may also be scary and over stimulating for your dog. Keeping them safe at home is the best option.
I Want Candy
Between the pre-Halloween candy you purchase and the mounds of loot the kids bring home, all the candy needs to stashed high and away from your dog. Make sure your little ones know that sharing is not caring when it comes to Halloween candy and the family pet. Xylitol is a toxic ingredient found in sugar-free candies. Even a small amount ingested can be fatal for your pets. Chocolate is also dangerous for animals and should absolutely not be given to the dog. If you think your dog may have eaten candy, call your vet right away. You can also keep the 24-hour ASPCA Animal Poison Control hotline handy.
