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Halloween is known to be the scariest night of the year with ghosts, witches, and werewolves around every corner – but the holiday doesn’t have to be frightening for your four-legged family member. Follow these simple safety tips to keep your pet safe all day and night.
Trick-or-Treat Candy is a No-No for Pets
All forms of chocolate – especially dark and baking chocolate – can be dangerous, and even lethal, to both cats and dogs. Sugar-free candies also pose a threat to pet health since they contain the sugar substitute xylitol. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and/or liver failure.
The Yard is Reserved for Humans
Even if your pet loves the nice, cool weather and is kid-friendly, the yard is not the place for them once the sun goes down on Halloween night. With your pet outside, you increase the risk of them becoming scared or overwhelmed and running to safety. Unfortunately, not all pets run to the safety of their own home.
Keep Your Fur Baby Confined and Away from the Door
Indoors is definitely better than outdoors during Halloween, but your door will be opening and closing for several hours, and strangers will be ringing the doorbell in costumes. This can be extremely frightening and stressful for your furry friend. We recommend placing your pet in a secure, confined room or crate away from all the traffic and noise.
Watch Out for Potential Halloween Decoration Dangers
We all love a carved jack-o-lantern on Halloween night, but pets can easily knock the festive decoration over or burn their tails or paws on the candle flame. Many popular Halloween plants such as decorative corn and pumpkins are considered nontoxic – but if your pet gets their paws on too much, stomach discomfort can occur.
Make Sure Pet Costumes Fit… And are Not Annoying to Your Pet
If you decide your furry friend needs to join the costume fun, make sure it isn’t dangerous. Pet costumes should fit correctly and not restrict movement, the ability to breathe, hearing, or eyesight. And let’s face it. Not all fur babies enjoy costumes. If your pet seems annoyed by their costume, it is best to take it off immediately. No matter how cute they look.
IDs Required Day and Night
Before the spookiest day of the year, ensure that your pet’s microchip is up-to-date and they have a properly fitted collar with current contact information on the ID tag. If your fur baby does escape the yard or house, having the proper identification will increase the chances of a safe and quick return home.
WVG is Available All Day and Night on Halloween
If your pet gets into trouble on Halloween and requires emergency veterinary care, come immediately to our state of the art hospital at 1325 Morris Ave. in Union, NJ – open 24/7.
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