Halloween Safety Tips for Pets
Halloween can be a fun time for families but not for pets. Here are practical steps you can take to keep your pets safe on Halloween
Keep your pets indoors
Its certainly better to keep your pet indoors on Halloween as there will be many activities happening around your home. Strangers walking in and out of your home in unusual costumes can be frightening for your pet, and can result in unexpected aggression or escape attempts. You can put your cat or dog in a safe room to prevent them from running wildly into the night.
Store glow sticks in a safe room
Although glow sticks are generally non-toxic, they can add unwanted drama and spoil your holiday when a pet accidentally chews one open. When pets chew on a glow stick, they may become agitated or even vomit. If your pet chews on a glow stick, you should offer a small treat or fresh water to help remove the material from its mouth.
Keep electric powered Halloween decorations away from pets
While electric powered decorations are safer than regular candles, they can still present a potential risk to pets. It is therefore important to keep electric powered decorations away from pets as they can cause a life-threatening electrical shock. Pets can swallow batteries leading to gastrointestinal blockage or chemical burns if chewed open.
Keep lit pumpkins away from pets
When you use candles to light your Halloween decorations, ensure you place them away from pets. If you are not careful, they can easily burn themselves or cause a fire.
Never feed them candy
All types of chocolates, particularly dark chocolate can be lethal for cats and dogs. Some of the common symptoms your pet is suffering from chocolate poisoning might include diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, rapid breathing and increased heart rate. Halloween candies also contain an artificial sweetener that can be poisonous to pets.
Use proper tags and collars
You should ensure your pets have proper tags or collars should they escape in the night on Halloween. Microchips offer peace of mind should the tag or collar fall off. Ensure you keep the information up-to-date.
Keep Halloween plants away from pets
Although you can feed your pets small amounts of pumpkin and corn, swallowing uncooked Halloween pumpkins can cause digestive problems. Pets often experience stomach upset whenever they eat something they are not used to.
Conclusion
In the event your pet is injured during Halloween, you should consult your veterinarian or locate a 24-hour veterinary clinic.
References: Petmd, Pet insurance, HSLM
Copyright: Local Value
