Halloween Tips

To ensure you and your pet have a safe and Happy Halloween here are some tips that will make the night fun for everyone!

• Your pet can easily become anxious and frightened with the doorbell frequently ringing to reveal children in unfamiliar clothes and masks. Confining your cat or dog to their own safe haven for the evening (like their crate or a closed room) can help calm their nerves, make them feel secure and ultimately prevent them from running out of the frequently opening front door.
• If you walk your dog around the neighborhood while children are trick-or-treating, be sure to use a sturdy collar or harness and leash, and be careful around unfamiliar children and adults. Again, the costumes and masks may make your pet uncomfortable and frightened with people they are usually comfortable with.
• Be sure your pet is wearing identification tags with your name and phone number clearly indicated on them in case you become separated from your pet or they escape from the house.
• If you’re dressing your pet for Halloween, use safe, non-flammable and non-toxic items that your pet is comfortable in and that don’t restrict their movement, breathing or vision. Even though pets in costumes are very cute, some cats and dogs are very unhappy wearing them.
• Lastly, keep all candy out of your pet’s reach — especially chocolate, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Consumption of even small amounts can cause seizures, muscle tremors and vomiting while larger doses can be fatal. Stick to their own treats and they will be just as happy.