Halloween Pet Safety tips!
Halloween, although fun for our families can be stressful and dangerous for our pets. Let's discuss some common risks for our pets this year.
Candy, candy candy!
The treats passed out during halloween are what helps bring joy and reward for our costume efforts. Please understand that these treats are not meant for our four legged family members. A single candy treat can cause GI upset or even worse can be toxic to our pets(chocolate). Please keep candy baskets out of our pets reach to avoid any risks.
Pet Costumes!
Every year pet costumes seem to get more elaborate. From built in fans(batteries) to glow sticks and a variety of different details. Pets may be, # 1 stressed, but also these can pose hazards. Small pieces and details can pose choking hazards to our pets. String can be irresistible to cats and often can lead to an intestinal blockage. Once the festivities are complete please store costumes away from our pets to avoid any emergency situations. Also make sure your pets are supervised while wearing them.
Decorations!
From witches and brooms to ghosts and ghouls, decorations are a major part of this holliday. It can be very easy for a panicked pet to get wrapped up and trapped. Candles can be knocked over from wagging tails and curious noses can lead to burns. Please make sure our pets are supervised.
Ding Dong!
The doorbell over and over again can get even the most laid back pets stressed. Please give your pets a quiet/safe place to try and relax during all the commotion. The other risk with the door opening over and over again is pets escaping. If your pets are a flight risk keep them away from the door or in a safe room. Some pets' anxieties are triggered by bells and loud sounds. If your pet is one please ask your veterinarian about medications to help keep them calm during the night's festivities.
Keep pets at home!
Trick or treating is fun for us but can be extremely stressful to our pets. It is note the best time to take them for walks. Loud noises and spooky costumes can startle our pets. Plan accordingly and make sure pets are walked prior to or after all of the trick or treating. Know your neighborhood and use good judgment as it is very easy for a spooky pet to run off.
These are just a few things to keep in mind to keep this Halloween safe for your pet. If you have any questions then please feel free to give Greenway Animal Hospital a call.
