How to keep your pets safe
Halloween is just around the corner and many people will be dressing up their pets to do or show off a fun trick or treat.
With so many pets around, it’s important to know how to keep your pet safe during holiday fun.
There are some important tips to keep in mind. Among them: Aside from the likelihood of a pet running out of the house, pets could be at risk of food poisoning and even “costume distress.”
Pets Lifeline CEO Nancy King said in a media statement that with a few quick tips, protecting a pet during Halloween can be easy.
Here are smart and sensible pet safety ideas.
Keep the treats safely tucked away
Though candy is common in the home this time of year, make sure you keep them safely away from your pets, King said.
“Chocolate is very toxic to both dogs and cats, and many candies also contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic if ingested,” she said.
Parents and caregivers should also educate children about the harmful effects, King said, so they don’t accidentally feed chocolate to a dog or give their pets other candy from their trick-or-treat bag.
Stick to pet-friendly decorations
When choosing Halloween decorations, make sure they are pet-friendly.
Dogs and cats, in particular, often perceive decorations differently than humans, King explained.
For example, a dog might think your harmless pumpkin decoration is a chew toy.
“Go to your local pet store and get them some spooky toys they’re sure to enjoy, or build a DIY haunted house for your cat out of cardboard,” she said.
In addition, some decorations may pose a choking hazard depending on the materials used. Keep your pet in mind when choosing these fun decorations.
Keep pets indoors after dark
King recommends walking your dog before dark on Halloween to avoid the trick-or-treaters that show up later.
The same idea applies to pets who usually stay outside during the day. If you have a cat that is indoors and outdoors, try bringing your cat inside early for the night.
Also, be careful when opening doors or windows as pets may want to flee your home on the spooky night.
Keep an eye on the pumpkins
Though squash can be nutritious for pets, King said you should watch how much of it your pets consume, as too much can cause digestive problems for them.
“Everything in moderation,” she says.
Do you want to light that jack-o’-lantern? Make sure it’s out of the way of your pets.
The last thing you want is for your pet to catch fire – and risk getting burned.
Be careful with costumes
Finally, be careful with the costume you choose for your pet.
Though cute and adorable, pet Halloween costumes can pose a hazard for many reasons.
Also, never force a pet to wear a costume they don’t want, as King says the pet could trade in return.