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Howl-o-ween Safety Tips

Halloween is just around the corner, and while it's a time for spooky fun and festive treats, it's important to remember that our furry companions may not share our enthusiasm for this holiday. In fact, Halloween can be downright scary for pets.

But fear not, pet parents! With a little preparation and awareness, you can ensure a safe and happy Halloween for everyone in your household, including those with four legs.

Decorations: A Spooky Hazard

Those spooky cobwebs, flickering jack-o-lanterns, and dangling skeletons might add to the Halloween ambiance, but they can also pose a real threat to curious pets.

Chew Toy Confusion: Remember, a plastic bone is no substitute for the real deal, so keep those tempting decorations safely out of reach! Curious pets might mistake decorations for chew toys, leading to a frightening vet bill that's scarier than any ghost or goblin. 

Fire Frights: Beware of candles and Jack-O-Lanterns. Whether they’re cute or spooky, one wrong tail wag can cause these to tumble over. 

Treats: Not So Sweet

While you're indulging in your favorite Halloween candy, remember that many treats are toxic to pets.

Chocolate Chaos: Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is poisonous to both dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even seizures.

Xylitol: The Hidden Danger: This artificial sweetener, often found in sugar-free candy and gum, is extremely toxic to dogs. Be sure to check ingredient lists carefully, as xylitol can be listed under different names like "birch sugar."

Wrapper Worries: Candy wrappers can cause choking or intestinal blockage if swallowed. Keep those wrappers safely out of reach, and dispose of them properly.

 

Witch way to the treats? 

Your furry friend doesn't need to go door-to-door to have a spooktacular Halloween! Spoil them with themed treats and toys for a howling good time at home

Costumes: Comfort is Key

While a costumed pet can be adorable, prioritize your pet's comfort and safety.

Proper Fit: Make sure the costume fits properly and doesn't restrict your pet's movement, vision, hearing, or breathing.

Choking Hazards: Avoid costumes with small parts, ribbons, or strings that could be chewed off and swallowed.

Stress Signals: Not all pets enjoy wearing costumes. If your pet seems distressed, agitated, or tries to remove the costume, it's best to let them go au naturel.

Halloween Night: Keeping the Peac

Halloween night can be particularly stressful for pets with the constant doorbell ringing, excited visitors in costumes, and general commotion.

Safe Haven: Create a quiet, secure space away from the front door where your pet can relax.

Pre-Trick-or-Treating Exercise: Take your dog for a long walk before the trick-or-treaters arrive to help them burn off excess energy.

Calming Aids: If your pet is prone to anxiety, consider using calming aids like pheromone diffusers, anxiety supplements, or a Thundershirt.

Don't Forget the ID!

In the excitement of Halloween, pets can sometimes slip out unnoticed. Make sure your pet's identification tags and microchip information are up-to-date, just in case.
By following these tips, you can ensure that both you and your furry friends have a happy and safe Halloween!