Halloween and trick-or-treat night are creeping up at the end of this month. Don’t let the holiday turn into a real-life nightmare because of a pet emergency! Use these tips from a Crown Point, IN veterinarian to keep your furry friend safe this Halloween:
Keep an Eye on the Treats
Chocolate and candy treats are found in droves this time of year. Remember: chocolate and candy are very toxic to pets, even in small amounts. This is because of chemicals called theobromine (found in chocolate) and xylitol (which is often used as a sweetener in candy and gum). Never let your pet anywhere near the treat bowl, because a trip to the emergency room may be in your future if your pet decides to chow down.
Careful with Costumes
Your pet sure will look adorable in his or her very own Halloween costume. Keep in mind, though, that not all pets take kindly to wearing clothes; don’t stress your pet out just for the sake of appearances. Also, check the costume to make sure it doesn’t have any small parts that could be chewed off, swallowed, and choked on.
Escape Hazard
Trick-or-treat night can be dangerous for our animal companions. For one, they may be stressed out by the doorbell ringing constantly. Secondly, they may try to escape out of the often-opened front door. If your pet becomes agitated or may attempt an escape, it’s best to keep them secured elsewhere until trick-or-treat is over.
Candles and Jack-o-Lanterns
Candles and jack-o-lanterns are common holiday sights, but remember that the open flames of these items can present a hazard. It’s very easy for pets to accidentally swipe a tail or paw into them, burning themselves or—equally frightening—starting a fire. Make sure items with an open flame are placed out of your pet’s reach to avoid any risk.
Halloween Decorations
Be sure to tape down the electrical wires of light-up ghosts or plastic jack-o-lanterns, as pets can get tangled or chew on these. Also beware of common autumn decorative plants, like pumpkins, gourds, and fall corn—these aren’t toxic, but enough of any foreign substance can make a pet sick if they eat too much. If your pet is the nibbler type, place these items far out of reach.
Want more holiday safety tips before Halloween and trick-or-treat night arrive? Contact your Crown Point, IN veterinary clinic for additional help.
