Halloween Safety Tips for your Pet
Halloween is nearly here! There will probably be many more trick-or-treaters this year than in the past several years. While we are all eager to get our pets in on the fun, but to keep them safe this Halloween, here are some tips and tricks from Wise and Wonderful Integrative Veterinary Center, your holistic and integrative Sonoma County vet.
Treats
We don't have to tell you that man's best friend is a very skilled beggar. Don't let your pooch convince you to share candies or other sweet treats! Many of those Halloween goodies contain things that are dangerous to Fido, such as chocolate, raisins, sugar, and xylitol. Pups can also choke on hard candies or candy wrappers. If you’re at a party with your pet or hosting guests, keep food on high surfaces and avoid lower areas like coffee tables. Even cats like to get into appetizers that can contain toxic ingredients or dangerously sharp objects like toothpicks or skewers.
Traffic
Trick-or-Treating is a fun tradition, but if you want to take your dog with you, be sure they are comfortable in crowded areas and won’t be overwhelmed by revelers celebrating in costumes. It's not unusual to have a lot of increased traffic, both pedestrian and vehicular, around Halloween. This is something to keep in mind if you have a fenced yard. You also don't want to risk someone feeding him something that isn't safe. Bring your canine companion in before it gets dark.
Decorations
Our furry friends are very curious and playful, which are of course two of their most adorable traits. Unfortunately, these characteristics can get your cat or dog into trouble. Keep anything that isn't safe for your pet out of paws' reach. This includes things like candles, jack-o-lanterns, garlands, lights, and anything small or sharp. (You may want to keep that mechanical screaming alien away from your anxious pets as well.)
Costumes
It's not hard to see why so many people like to get their dogs and cats in on the fun of dressing up. Your kitty or pup does make a pretty cute pirate! She's also been a spider, a dinosaur, and a taco, among other things. Just put your furry buddy's safety first. Don't put your pet in anything that is tight, hot, flammable, itchy, or restricting. Outfits with zippers are also a no, as are costumes with small parts. Also, let your canine buddy have a say in his outfit. If your pooch looks uncomfortable, just snap a quick picture and take his costume off. Try something minimal, like a bandana or bow tie, instead. You may be tempted to dye your pet’s fur for the holiday. Be mindful many dyes, including human hair dye, may contain toxins that can irritate your pet’s skin. Never use a dye not specifically formulated for use on cats or dogs.
Happy Halloween! Please reach out to Wise & Wonderful, your local Santa Rosa, CA, animal clinic, for all of your dog's veterinary care needs. We're dedicated to offering great veterinary care!
