Halloween is a spooktacular time of year for humans, but it can be a scary time for our pet friends. From candles and candy to costumes and chaos, there are plenty of hazards that can put a damper on your pet’s Halloween fun. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! Read on for some tips on keeping your pet safe and sound this Halloween season.
Candles, Candy, and Chocolate Oh My!
Halloween wouldn’t be complete without candles, candy, and chocolate. But did you know that all three of these items can be dangerous to pets? Pets are much more sensitive to the effects of chocolate than humans are, so it’s important to keep them away from any and all chocolate treats. Candles are also a hazard for curious pets who may knock them over, causing a fire. And many candies, particularly sugarless ones, may contain xylitol, a sugar substitute, which can be fatal to dogs.
Wrappers and Decorations
From wreaths to strings of lights, there are plenty of hazards lurking in your Halloween decorations. Cats in particular are drawn to shiny objects which can cause choking if swallowed. Strings of lights can also be tempting for cats and dogs alike, but chewing on electrical cords can lead to burns or even electrocution. So it’s important to keep an eye on your pet around Halloween decorations, and remove anything that could pose a threat.
Don’t forget about the wrappers that your kids cast aside after raiding their trick-or-treat bags! Candy wrappers can be dangerous if swallowed, and even cause gastrointestinal blockages. So make sure to keep an eye on those candy wrappers, and dispose of them properly.
Costumes
Dressing up your pet in a costume is a fun way to include them in the Halloween festivities. But it’s important to choose a costume that is safe and comfortable for your pet. Avoid costumes that are restrictive or have small, easily swallowed parts. Also, make sure the costume doesn’t impede your pet’s vision or hearing. If your pet seems uncomfortable in a costume, opt for a colorful bandana or leash, instead.
Chaos at the Door
Between trick-or-treaters coming and going and the constant ringing of the doorbell, Halloween can be a chaotic time for pets. If your pet gets anxious around strangers or loud noises, it will be best to keep them in another room during peak trick-or-treating hours. Consider playing soothing music or putting on a TV show to help drown out the noise. Using a diffuser with pheromones (like Adaptil or Feliway – both available in our online store) can also help to calm your pet’s nerves.
Halloween is a fun time for humans, but it can be dangerous for pets if precautions aren’t taken. From candles and candy to costumes and chaos, there are plenty of hazards that could put a damper on your pet’s Halloween fun. With a little planning and preparation, you can make sure that your pet, and YOU, have a fun and safe Halloween!
Image credit: dore art/iStock / Getty Images Plus