Happy Halloween!! While you are planning your halloween costume and making party arrangements here is some advice to keep your pets safe during the holiday season.
1. Candy- No tricks, no treats: That bowl of candy is for trick-or-treaters, not for pets. Chocolate in all forms-especially dark or baking chocolate-are toxic and can be extremely dangerous for dogs and cats. Candies containing the artificial sweetener Xylitol can also cause problems, including liver failure. If you do suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
2. Decorations: Popular Halloween plants such as pumpkins and decorative corn are considered to be relatively nontoxic, but they can produce stomach upset in pets that nibble on them. Wires and cords from electric lights and other decorations should be kept out of reach of your pets. If chewed, your pet might suffer cuts or burns, or receive a possibly life-threatening electrical shock. A carved pumpkin is festive, but do exercise caution if you choose to add a candle. Pets can easily knock a lit pumpkin over and cause a fire. Curious kittens especially run the risk of getting burned or singed by candle flames.
3. Costumes: Dress-up can be a big mess-up for some pets. Please don't put your dog or cat in a costume UNLESS you know he or she likes it. If you do dress up your pet, make sure the costume isn't annoying or unsafe. It should not constrict the animal's movement or hearing, or impede his ability to breathe, bark or meow. Also, be sure to try on costumes before the big night. If your pet seems distressed, allergic or shows abnormal behavior, let them go sans costume. Take a closer look at your pet's costume and make sure it does not have small, dangling or easily chewed-off pieces that he could choke on.
4. Front Door: All but the most social dogs and cats should be kept in a separate room away from the front door during peak trick-or-treating hours. Too many strangers can be scary and stressful for pets. When opening the door for trick-or-treaters, take care that your cat or dog doesn't dart outside. Always make sure your dog or cat has proper identification. If for any reason your pet escapes and becomes lost, a collar and tags and/or a microchip can be a lifesaver, increasing the chances that he or she will be returned to you. Contact your veterinarian to discuss getting your pet microchipped.
Wishing you a happy and safe Halloween.
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