Halloween can be frighteningly good fun for humans but it has the potential to be just plain frightening for pets.  Familiarize yourself with potential dangers so you can best keep your 2 and 4 legged family members happy, healthy, safe and together.

ACT NOW

Read the following tips and don’t forget to share!

Keep Your Pets Confined Indoors

• Don’t make your pets easily accessible to pranksters. Deadly acts of cruelty have been known to happen on this night.
• Even the most socialized pet can become overwhelmed in the presence of so many strangers. Place your pet in a back room to keep everybody safe.
• Escape artists are always in search of that perfect opportunity to break free and your front door will often be open. Using an extra barrier like a gate or a door may keep Fido distant, but it will ultimately keep your family together.
• If for any reason your pet escapes and becomes lost, a collar and tags and/or a microchip can increase the chances that he or she will be returned to you.

Stick to Pet Treats
If you suspect your pet has ingested a potentially dangerous substance, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

• No Chocolate — chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, increased thirst, urination and heart rate and seizures.
• Xylitol, an artificial sweetener, can be poisonous to dogs causing a sudden drop in blood sugar leads. This cn lead to depression, lack of coordination, seizures and, if severe, liver failure.
• Choking hazards and intestinal blockages can be caused by tinfoil and cellophane wrappers, small costume accessories, corn husks and large chunks of ingested pumpkin.

Beware New and Interesting “Toys”

• Animals are like babies, experiencing new things with their mouths, and decorations provide a host of new and interesting sights, smells and sounds. Protect your pet from ingesting life threatening glass or plastic shards and the shock of chewing through electrical cords

Candle Dangers

• Dogs may be interested in your pumpkin without understanding the fire hazard of tipping the candle inside.
• Kittens especially (and some cats) are drawn to dancing flames. Burns are a significant risk.

Costumes

• Some pets love to dress up. Others find it very stressful. Know your pet’s preference before you dress him or her for Halloween.
• Some costume materials can cause allergic reactions. Be aware and watch for wheezing, itching or swelling.
• Beware constriction, restriction and small objects that can hinder breathing, motion, sight and hearing.

Nobody says you and your pet can’t have fun for Halloween. We hope these tips ensure that it’s safe too!

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