October 31, 2016
Halloween is a fun holiday, but can take a turn for the worst if pets aren’t taken care of properly. While your beagle dressed as a hot dog might be stress howling, your corgi dressed as a mermaid might be sneaking treats behind your back. Let’s examine a few Halloween pet safety tips that will benefit all of our furry friends alike this holiday.
Though humans may love it, chocolate is highly toxic to dogs and cats, especially the baking and dark chocolate varieties. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning in pets are vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, seizures, increased body temperature, and rapid breathing.
Also keep an eye out for any sugar free candies containing xylitol. Xylitol can be poisonous to dogs as well.
If you think your pet has ingested any chocolate or candy that they shouldn’t have, bring them into your vet as soon as possible. The sooner they are treated, the better!
As cute as you may think your pet looks in their costume, it may be causing them a lot of stress. Unless you know your pet is tolerant of putting on clothes or costumes, it’s better off to let them be. If your pet does like costumes, make sure it is a comfortable fit that allows them to move. Check your pet’s costume for accessories as well – small accessories can be potential choking hazards.
Though most Halloween nights are fun and games, keep a close eye on your pets. If they are out of your sight, make sure they aren’t chewing on decorations or wires. Keep your door securely closed at all times so pets can’t sneak out; keep ID tags on your pets all night and make sure microchip information is up to date just in case.
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