Halloween is just around the corner. As we prepare for some spooky fun, it's important to keep Halloween safety for pets in mind.
While Halloween can be an exciting time for humans, it can pose certain risks to our pets. According to the American Kennel Club, emergency and toxicology calls to the Pet Poison Helpline “increase by 12% during the week of Halloween, making it the call center’s busiest time of year.”
To ensure that your animals have a safe Halloween, we've put together a list of pet safety tips to keep in mind.
No Candy
Halloween candy may be a delicious treat for humans, but it’s not safe for pets.
Chocolate, in particular, is toxic to pets. And candy wrappers can pose a choking risk.
To avoid any incidents keep all candy out of your pet's reach and remind your family and guests to do the same.
Don’t leave your pets unattended around the candy, just in case they get a little too curious. If possible, store candy in a container with a lid.
Decorate With Care
Halloween decorations can be captivating to curious pets so be extra cautious placing them around your house or yard. Small items like candles, electrical cords, twinkle lights, and small decorations can easily be chewed on or knocked over.
Make sure decorations are secured to minimize risk. In addition, battery-operated candles are a safer alternative to real candles in your jack-o-lanterns, and eliminate the risk of fire.
If you leave your pets alone, consider putting the Halloween decor away or keeping your pet in a kennel or pet-safe area to avoid any potentially dangerous incidents.
Make Sure Costumes Are Comfortable
While dressing your pet in Halloween costumes can be adorable, there are a few risks to keep in mind.
To minimize anxiety and increase your pet’s comfort, ensure that the costume doesn't restrict their movement or breathing. It’s best to go a bit bigger than have it be too tight,
Avoid costumes that have small parts, such as ties or buttons, that could be chewed off or swallowed. Make sure you have some treats or toys handy to refocus their attention if they are focused on their costume.
Also, it’s best to help your cat or dog adjust to the costume gradually. Let them sniff it and put it in a visible location so they get used to it. Then, put it on them for short periods of time in the days or weeks leading up to Trick-Or-Treating or your Halloween party. Gradually increase the amount of time they wear it. That way, when the festivities officially begin, they’ll already be used to it.
Secure pets during Trick-or-Treating
Whether you plan to take your pet trick-or-treating with your family or have them at home when trick-or-treaters come to your house, keeping them properly secured is crucial.
Consistently opening and closing the door, extra noise, and other stimulation can prompt escape attempts. Plus, some children may be afraid of animals or have allergies.
With all that in mind, it’s best to keep your dog or cat kenneled, in another room, or on a leash. Even the most well-trained pets can easily get spooked.
Make sure your pet has proper identification
As noted, Halloween provides plenty of opportunities for your pet to escape. In case that happens, take a proactive approach and ensure your pet has proper identification.
Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with an ID tag that has up-to-date contact information. If possible, consider having your dog or cat microchipped. Statistics show that microchipped dogs are returned to owners more than 50% of the time.
Keep pumpkin safety in mind
If you're using pumpkins for decoration, keep an eye on your pets around them.
While pumpkin is healthy for dogs, stems and guts can cause digestive issues and other health concerns. You should also keep your pet away from carved pumpkins, so they don’t accidentally ingest candles or decorations.
If you do want to give your pet pumpkin, use pureed pumpkin with no spices, sugar, or other additives. This should be considered a treat and given in small amounts.
Avoid changing diet and routine
Halloween, and the following holiday season, can be busy. It can be easy to get off your pet’s normal feeding schedule or sneak them some extra human food or treats here and there.
Stick to your pet’s regular diet and provide them with limited pet-safe treats. This will minimize digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation that can come from sudden changes in diet.
If your pet is dealing with any of the above issues or fall allergies, consider giving Maya Pet a try. Maya Pet goes beyond a typical probiotic, with 10 targeted Smart StrainsTM to help build up your pet’s digestive system, immune system, and more.
Happy Halloween from Maya Pet
With a little extra care and attention to your pet's safety, you can ensure that your pets have a spook-free and delightful Halloween season. Happy Halloween!
